Spring Flood Potential High for Midwest

With the snowpack as big as it's been in the last 60 years across the northern Plains, the potential for spring flooding is high this year. Between two and ten inches of water can be found in the snowpack in some areas, with the possibility of even higher amounts in places like northeastern Minnesota. When warmer temperatures arrive, snow melt could cause rivers to over-run their banks. The Red River between Minnesota and North Dakota is of particular concern, as are the Big Sioux and James rivers in South Dakota.

Locally, the Rock and Pecatonica rivers are already running high. Flood advisories continue for the Pecatonica River near Shirland. Also, the Rock River continues its advisory in Byron and Latham Park.
There is a flood warning for the Rock River at Rockton from late Saturday night until Monday morning. Along with Rockton, the Rock River is also affecting Afton. This flood warning will start Thursday morning and will continue until further notice. In Janesville, floodwaters will affect Riverside Park and South River Road where the impact is at 10.5 feet!