Flood Forecast from the National Weather Service
For the most up to date flood forecasts, please visit the National Weather Service website.
14 feet: Minor Flood Stage
15 feet: Moderate Flood Stage
17 feet: Major Flood Stage
2023 Flood Closures
2023 Flood Closures
Water Street, located along the south side of the Mississippi River, is closed from Lilydale Pool & Yacht Club to the public boat launch to all vehicle traffic, as well as pedestrians and bicyclists using the trail. The roadway, trail and shoreline was damaged during the flood and will need repairs before the roadway and trail can be safely reopened.
To access the public boat launch and park facilities, please enter on the eastern side of Water Street down by Harriet Island.
For updated trail, park and facility closures at Saint Paul Parks & Recreation, visit: https://www.stpaul.gov/park-closures
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
Updates
Flood Updates
Please see the previously posted updates
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According to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River water levels in Saint Paul will reach the major flood stage level on Friday, April 20 of 17 feet. The forecast has the river water levels rising to more than 18.5 feet by Monday, April 24 and continuing to about 19 feet next week.
Current Road Closures (includes any bike or pedestrian trails):
- Shepard Road/Warner Road between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61
- Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street are closed to through traffic. These street segments have been converted to two-way traffic only to access the buildings.
- Water Street/Lilydale Road between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard
- 4th Street from Willius Street to Commercial Street (in Bruce Vento Park)
- East 2nd Street from Kellogg Boulevard to Jackson Street
- Childs Road from Warner Road to south terminus
- Pig's Eye Lake Road from Childs Road to south terminus
- Barge Channel Road from Concord to east terminus will close on Friday, April 21 at 7 p.m.
Current Park Closures:
Due to rising water levels in the Mississippi River, several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul have been closed. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at https://www.stpaul.gov/park-closures:
- Chestnut Plaza
- City House
- Crosby Farm Regional Park
- Desnoyer Trail/ Meeker Island Dog Park
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Pavilion and public dock
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Kelly's Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lilydale Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Lower Landing Park
- Pig’s Eye Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
Saint Paul Impound Lot Has Been Relocated Due to Flooding:
- Saint Paul's Impound Lot, located at 830 Barge Channel Road has temporarily moved to 245 Maryland Avenue E.
- Temporary Impound Lot hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week.
- Please visit the Impound Lot website at www.stpaul.gov/impound
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Update 4/18:
Currently, according to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River water levels in Saint Paul are at the minor flood stage of 14 feet, but expected to reach moderate flood stage level of above 15 feet by the end of the day. It is anticipated that the Mississippi River will reach major flood stage levels in Saint Paul by Thursday, April 20.
Current Road Closures:
- Shepard Road/Warner Road between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61 was closed on the evening of April 16 to vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic.
- Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street are closed to through traffic. These one-way street segments that normally connect to Shepard Road have been converted to two-way traffic open only to access the buildings.
- Water Street/Lilydale Road between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard was closed on April 14 to vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic.
- 4th Street from Willius Street to Commerical Street (in Bruce Vento Park) will close to all traffic today, Tuesday, April 18 at 7 p.m.
Current Park Closures:
Due to rising water levels in the Mississippi River, several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul have been closed. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/special-notices-closures:
- Chestnut Plaza
- City House
- Crosby Farm Regional Park
- Desnoyer Trail/ Meeker Island Dog Park
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Pavilion and public dock
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Kelly's Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lilydale Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Pig’s Eye Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
Saint Paul Impound Lot Will Be Temporarily Relocated Due to Flooding:
- Saint Paul's Impound Lot, located at 830 Barge Channel Road, will be closed starting Wednesday April 19.
- The temporary Impound Lot will be located at 245 Maryland Avenue E.
- The temporary Impound Lot will reopen and resume operations to the public on Friday, April 21. Time to be determined.
- Temporary Impound Lot hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week.
- Please visit the Impound Lot website at www.stpaul.gov/impound
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Saint Paul Closes Water Street today, April 14 at 2 p.m.; Announces Closure of Shepard/Warner Road Beginning Sunday, April 16 at 6 p.m.
The City of Saint Paul, in coordination with Ramsey County, will close Shepard Road/Warner Road beginning Sunday, April 16, 2023 at 6 p.m. in anticipation of street flooding caused by rising water levels of the Mississippi River. A 3.2-mile stretch of Shepard Road/Warner Road, located along the north side of the Mississippi River along downtown Saint Paul, will be closed to vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61.
As part of this road closure, Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street will be closed to through traffic. These one-way street segments that normally connect to Shepard Road will be temporarily converted to two-way traffic open only to access the buildings. Temporarily closing Shepard Road/Warner Road is part of the city’s Flood Response Plan when rising river levels near the moderate flood stage of 15 feet.
Starting today, April 14 at 2 p.m. Water Street/Lilydale Road, which is located along the south side of the Mississippi River in Saint Paul will be closed to vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard. Both the Pool and Yacht Club and Harriet Island remain open to visitors at this time.
Due to rising water levels in the Mississippi River, several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul have temporary closures. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/special-notices-closures:
- Chestnut Plaza
- City House
- Crosby Farm Regional Park
- Desnoyer Trail/ Meeker Island Dog Park
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Pavilion and public dock
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Kelly's Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lilydale Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Pig’s Eye Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
Currently, the Mississippi River is measuring at a level of 10.52 feet and is expected to crest above 18 feet, according to the National Weather Service’s forecast. It is likely that Saint Paul will reach moderate flood stage of 15 feet on Monday, April 17 and could reach major flood stage levels on 17 feet by Wednesday, April 19.
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Saint Paul to Close Water Street on Friday, April 14 Due to Anticipated Street Flooding
Currently the Mississippi River level in Saint Paul is at 9.33 feet. The city and our partners continue to closely monitor the rising water levels of the Mississippi River. According to National Weather Service forecast, the river could be at the minor flood stage level of 14 feet by Sunday, April 16 and the moderate flood stage level of 15 feet by Monday, April 17.
The City of Saint Paul will close Water Street/Lilydale Road beginning Friday, April 14, 2023 after 2 p.m. in anticipation of local street flooding caused by rising water levels of the Mississippi River. Water Street, which is located along the south side of the Mississippi River in Saint Paul will be closed to vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard. Both the Pool and Yacht Club and Harriet Island remain open to visitors at this time. Temporarily closing Water Street, and portions of the city’s park facilities and trails are part of the city’s Flood Response Plan.
Due to rising water levels in the Mississippi River, several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul have temporary closures. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures at Parks' Special Notices and Closures page
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According to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River water levels in Saint Paul are at major flood stage level of 17 feet. The forecast has the river water levels rising to more than 18 feet by Monday, April 24 and continuing to crest Thursday-Saturday (4/27-29) just over 18 feet.
Current Road Closures (includes any bike or pedestrian trails):
- Shepard Road/Warner Road between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61
- Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street are closed to through traffic. These street segments have been converted to two-way traffic only to access the buildings.
- Water Street/Lilydale Road between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard
- 4th Street from Willius Street to Commercial Street (in Bruce Vento Park)
- East 2nd Street from Kellogg Boulevard to Jackson Street
- Childs Road from Warner Road to south terminus
- Pig's Eye Lake Road from Childs Road to south terminus
- Barge Channel Road from Concord to east terminus
Current Park Closures:
Due to rising water levels in the Mississippi River, several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul have been closed. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at https://www.stpaul.gov/park-closures:
- Chestnut Plaza
- City House
- Crosby Farm Regional Park
- Desnoyer Trail/ Meeker Island Dog Park
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Pavilion and public dock
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Kelly's Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lilydale Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Lower Landing Park
- Pig’s Eye Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
Saint Paul Impound Lot Has Been Relocated Due to Flooding:
- Saint Paul's Impound Lot, located at 830 Barge Channel Road has temporarily moved to 245 Maryland Avenue E.
- Temporary Impound Lot hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week.
- Please visit the Impound Lot website at www.stpaul.gov/impound
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Update 4/28:
According to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River water levels in Saint Paul crested at 18.24 feet on April 27. River levels are starting a slow decline, and are currently forecast to stay in the "major flood" level of 17 feet until Monday, May 1.
Current Road Closures (includes any bike or pedestrian trails):
- Shepard Road/Warner Road between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61
- Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street are closed to through traffic. These street segments have been converted to two-way traffic only to access the buildings.
- Water Street/Lilydale Road between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard
- 4th Street from Willius Street to Commercial Street (in Bruce Vento Park)
- East 2nd Street from Kellogg Boulevard to Jackson Street
- Childs Road from Warner Road to south terminus
- Pig's Eye Lake Road from Childs Road to south terminus
- Barge Channel Road from Concord to east terminus
Current Park Closures:
Due to rising water levels in the Mississippi River, several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul have been closed. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at https://www.stpaul.gov/park-closures:
- Chestnut Plaza
- City House
- Crosby Farm Regional Park
- Desnoyer Trail/ Meeker Island Dog Park
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Pavilion and public dock
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Kelly's Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lilydale Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Lower Landing Park
- Pig’s Eye Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
Saint Paul Impound Lot Has Been Relocated Due to Flooding:
- Saint Paul's Impound Lot, located at 830 Barge Channel Road has temporarily moved to 245 Maryland Avenue E.
- Temporary Impound Lot hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week.
- Please visit the Impound Lot website at www.stpaul.gov/impound
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According to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River water levels in Saint Paul crested at 18.24 feet on April 27. River levels are starting a slow decline, and are currently in the moderate flood stage level under 17 feet.
Please know that although the flood waters continue to recede, the reopening of roads and park trails and facilities are likely to take additional time due to required inspection, testing, reactivation of systems, clean up, and removal of protective measures and barriers.
- Barge Channel Road reopened to traffic and businesses at 7 a.m. on May 1
Current Road Closures (includes any bike or pedestrian trails):
- Shepard Road/Warner Road between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61
- Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street are closed to through traffic. These street segments have been converted to two-way traffic only to access the buildings.
- Water Street/Lilydale Road between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard
- 4th Street from Willius Street to Commercial Street (in Bruce Vento Park)
- East 2nd Street from Kellogg Boulevard to Jackson Street
- Childs Road from Warner Road to south terminus
- Pig's Eye Lake Road from Childs Road to south terminus
Current Park Closures:
Several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul remained closed due to flooding and necessary clean up and assessments. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at https://www.stpaul.gov/park-closures:
- Chestnut Plaza
- City House
- Crosby Farm Regional Park
- Desnoyer Trail/ Meeker Island Dog Park
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Pavilion and public dock
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Kelly's Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lilydale Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Lower Landing Park
- Pig’s Eye Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
Saint Paul Impound Lot Has Been Relocated Due to Flooding:
- Saint Paul's Impound Lot, located at 830 Barge Channel Road has temporarily moved to 245 Maryland Avenue E.
- Temporary Impound Lot hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week.
- Please visit the Impound Lot website at www.stpaul.gov/impound
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According to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River water levels in Saint Paul crested at 18.24 feet on April 27. River levels continue a steady decline and are currently below minor flood stage levels.
Please know that although the flood waters continue to recede, the reopening of roads and park trails and facilities are likely to take additional time due to required inspection, testing, reactivation of systems, clean up, and removal of protective measures and barriers.
- Barge Channel Road reopened to traffic and businesses at 7 a.m. on May 1
Current Road Closures (includes any bike or pedestrian trails):
- Shepard Road/Warner Road between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61
- Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street are closed to through traffic. These street segments have been converted to two-way traffic only to access the buildings.
- Water Street/Lilydale Road between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard
- 4th Street from Willius Street to Commercial Street (in Bruce Vento Park)
- East 2nd Street from Kellogg Boulevard to Jackson Street
- Childs Road from Warner Road to south terminus
- Pig's Eye Lake Road from Childs Road to south terminus
Current Park Closures:
Several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul remained closed due to flooding and necessary clean up and assessments. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at https://www.stpaul.gov/park-closures:
- The following park areas are closed due to high water levels:
- Chestnut Plaza
- City House
- Crosby Farm Regional Park
- Desnoyer Trail
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Regional Park
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (including the boat launch)
- Kelly's Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lower Landing Park
- Lilydale Regional Park (including the boat launch)
- Meeker Island dog park
- Pigs Eye Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
Saint Paul Impound Lot Has Been Relocated Due to Flooding:
- Saint Paul's Impound Lot, located at 830 Barge Channel Road has temporarily moved to 245 Maryland Avenue E.
- Temporary Impound Lot hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week.
- Please visit the Impound Lot website at www.stpaul.gov/impound
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According to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River water levels in Saint Paul crested at 18.24 feet on April 27. River levels continue a steady decline and are currently below minor flood stage levels.
Please know that although the flood waters continue to recede, the reopening of roads and park trails and facilities are likely to take additional time due to required inspection, testing, reactivation of systems, clean up, and removal of protective measures and barriers.
- Barge Channel Road reopened to traffic and businesses at 7 a.m. on May 1
- Childs Road from Warner Road to south terminus reopened at noon on May 9
- Pig's Eye Lake Road from Childs Road to south terminus reopened at noon on May 9
Current Road Closures (includes any bike or pedestrian trails):
- Shepard Road/Warner Road between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61
- Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street are closed to through traffic. These street segments have been converted to two-way traffic only to access the buildings.
- Water Street/Lilydale Road between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard
- 4th Street from Willius Street to Commercial Street (in Bruce Vento Park)
- East 2nd Street from Kellogg Boulevard to Jackson Street
Current Park Closures:
Several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul remained closed due to flooding and necessary clean up and assessments. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at https://www.stpaul.gov/park-closures:
Please use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
Saint Paul Impound Lot Has Been Relocated Due to Flooding:
- Saint Paul's Impound Lot, located at 830 Barge Channel Road has temporarily moved to 245 Maryland Avenue E.
- Temporary Impound Lot hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 7 days a week.
- Please visit the Impound Lot website at www.stpaul.gov/impound
Xcel Energy Update
Xcel Energy Update
Xcel Energy wants to help your family stay safe in the event of flooding. It’s also taking steps to ensure its facilities can continue delivering reliable service if flooding occurs.
If flooding happens in your area, to help keep you safe, Xcel Energy may need to disconnect electric or natural gas service to some customers. You should not attempt to disconnect electricity or natural gas service yourself.
Visit Xcel Energy’s website to learn more about flood safety and preparations, or contact their Customer Care representatives at 800-895-4999.
Historic Crests
Top 10 Historic Crests in St. Paul
1. 26.01 ft on 04/16/1965
2. 24.52 ft on 04/15/1969
3. 23.76 ft on 04/18/2001
4. 23.20 ft on 04/30/2001
5. 22.37 ft on 04/13/1997
6. 22.02 ft on 04/16/1952
7. 20.19 ft on 03/31/2019
8. 20.13 ft on 06/26/2014
9. 19.15 ft on 06/26/1993
10. 19.02 ft on 03/29/2011
Resources
Resources and Information
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FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program has information on flood insurance. Flood insurance can be purchased through your homeowner's insurance company or renter's insurance company. It typically takes 30 days to take effect, so plan ahead so you're covered when you need it.
FEMA publishes flood plain information via the National Flood Hazard Layer (NHFL). To find out more, please visit the NHFL web mapping application.
To learn more about the NHFL and other FEMA flood information, visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center
To be eligible for federal assistance under the Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, the President of the United States needs to declare the area a Federal Disaster Area. Things to be of:
- Less than half of all flooding incidents result in a Presidential declared disaster.
- Persons in a Federal Disaster Area are eligible for low-cost loans (not grants).
- Annual flood insurance premiums are less than the interest on a Federal disaster loan.
FloodSmart.gov helps you learn about flood risk and taking steps to financially protect homes and businesses from flood damage.
Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for Individuals and Businesses. This resource from the IRS provides information about getting financial help if you have damaged or lost property in a designated Federal disaster area.
Minnesota DNR information on flood plains
Disclaimer: The information on this page is merely a summary of flood insurance information. For more information, contact your insurance agent.
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Why do vehicles float? They float for the same reason a 97,000 ton aircraft carrier floats, buoyancy!
Where does this idea that "my heavy vehicle will keep me safe" come from? It comes from the false trust in the weight of the vehicle you are driving.
Many believe their 3,000 pound or more vehicle will remain in contact with the road surface, that it is too heavy to float. Think about that for a moment. Aircraft carriers weighing 97,000 tons float.
Vehicles, including ships, float because of buoyancy. In fact, most cars can be swept away in 18-24 inches of moving water. Trucks and SUVs do not fare much better with an additional 6-12 inches of clearance.
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HSEM Flood Information and Resources
Ready.gov Flood information
Flood preparation information (CDC)
Information for recovery after the flood (CDC)
MN Department of Health Flood Information
MDH urges private well owners in areas at risk of floods to take action to avoid contamination
As communities around the state prepare for spring flooding, Minnesota health officials are reminding private well owners and users of the importance of taking preventive action to reduce the possibility of their drinking water becoming contaminated by floodwaters.
Wells contaminated with floodwater pose a health risk, but the impact floodwaters have on wells and water quality are often not as visible as other flood damage. With that in mind, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) offers well users the following recommendations:
If your well is in a flood-prone area and you have time, consider contacting a licensed well contractor to check your well and make any necessary repairs or changes to help protect it from flooding. These changes may include repairing cracked or damaged casing, extending the well casing above the expected flood level or temporarily replacing the vented well cap with a watertight cap or cover. You should also make sure that grading allows water to flow away from your well.
If you think your well might become flooded, store a supply of clean water that will last for at least a few days. Shut off power to the well pump to avoid having floodwater pumped into your plumbing system or home. If you only have a little time before a flood, you can cover the well with a heavy plastic bag or sheeting and secure it with electrical tape. This won’t completely protect your well from contamination, but it will help reduce the amount of water and debris that could enter your well, making clean up easier.
If floodwater reached your well, assume your well is contaminated. Water from your well should not be used for drinking, cooking or brushing your teeth until the floodwater recedes and the following steps have been completed:
- Avoid electrical shock. Do not approach a flooded well until it has been completely disconnected from its power source.
- If floodwater covered your well or may have entered your well directly, have a licensed well contractor inspect the well, clean out sediment or debris and disinfect it. Using your well pump to remove sediment or debris could ruin the pump. A directory of licensed well contractors is available at: Licensed Well and Boring Contractor Directory.
- If floodwater reached your well but you are confident that floodwater did not enter the well, have a licensed well contractor disinfect your well or complete the disinfection yourself. Detailed instructions are available at Disinfecting Flooded Private Water Wells.
- After you or the licensed well contractor disinfects your well and pumps out the chlorine solution, contact your county health department or laboratory accredited by MDH to get your well tested. Tell them you need to have your well water tested for coliform bacteria. They will provide sampling instructions. Accredited Labs in Minnesota Accepting Samples from Private Well Owners (PDF).
- If your well water test comes back positive for coliform bacteria, repeat the disinfection and testing process. You may need to disinfect and test your well several times before your well is free of bacterial contamination.
- Do not use the water from your well until the lab has informed you that it is safe and free of bacterial contamination.
If floodwater came within 50 feet of your well – but did not reach the well – MDH recommends that you have your well water tested for coliform bacteria as a precaution. You do not need to disinfect your well before having it tested. However, if the test comes back positive for bacteria, the well needs to be disinfected.
For well owners who need more information, please contact the Well Management Section at MDH at health.wells@state.mn.us or 651-201-4600 or 800-383-9808 or visit the Floods and Flood Precautions For Private Water Wells pages on the MDH website.
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Sandbagging 101 info sheet and how to design a sandbag levee from the US Army Corps of Engineers
North Dakota State University has information online about how to build a sandbag dike, along with the proper design, location and how many sandbags you might need.
