St. Croix River Flooding

4/14/2023 (Permalink)

Sandbags in Stillwater, MN

Spring has finally arrived in Minnesota! The sunshine and warm temperatures are such a blessing and bring so much joy. Of course, every season has its good and bad. 

The good news is that the snow has melted here in Stillwater, Minnesota. It was a relatively calm spring. We did not receive an influx of calls from people with wet basements caused by the snow melt. 

There is still worry about river flooding however. The snow up north is still melting and headed our way. Major flooding is still forecasted for the St. Croix River. According to The National Weather Service the river is expected to rise above flood stage Saturday evening, April 15, 2023 and continue rising to a crest of 89 feet Tuesday morning. Flood stage is at 87 feet.  At 89 feet, the city park in Bayport, Minnesota begins flooding.

While the warm temperatures this week may feel like summer, please remember that rivers are very dangerous this time of year. If you live along the St. Croix River, take precaution to protect your property. 

• Move contents out of the basement/ground level floor if possible
• Elevate major appliances onto concrete blocks
• Clean drainage ditches or storm drains
• Use a flood barrier (sandbags, portable flood gates, inflatable flood walls, etc.)
• Make sure your sump pump is working properly
• Turn off electricity at the breaker panel

If floodwater does enter your home, remember that it is contaminated water.  Take precautions to protect yourself and your family. If you need help with flood cleanup, give SERVPRO of Stillwater, Oakdale, Mahtomedi a call, 651-705-7028.