Minneapolis, MN (KROC-AM News) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has closed the locks on the Mississippi River in Minneapolis to recreational vessels due to high water flow rates.

The river is rising because of the torrential rains earlier this week that have been causing major flooding in parts of north-central and east-central Minnesota. Federal regulations call for closing the locks to recreational traffic when flow rates reach 30,000 cubic feet per second. If the flow rate reaches 40,000 cubic feet per second, the locks will also be closed to commercial traffic.

The Corps of Engineers reminds voters to exercise caution and be vigilant because the Mississippi River currents are high. Submerged logs and other debris moving beneath the surface can cause severe damage to boats and the passengers on watercraft.
In southeastern Minnesota, the Mississippi River has risen to just under 11 feet at Lake City and is expected to crest late Tuesday at around 3 feet under flood stage. At Wabasha, the river is getting close to 10 feet and is predicted to crest Tuesday night about a half a foot under flood stage.

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National Weather Service
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The flooding in northern Minnesota continues to cause major problems. Benton County declared a State of Emergency on Friday, becoming the fourth county in that region to make the declaration because of damage to roads and other public infrastructure.

 

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