The National Weather Service has released an updated spring flooding outlook, with the greatest flood potential predicted for the Mississippi River in St.
Paul.
The snowpack left behind from one of the snowiest winters on record is causing concern as temperatures begin to warm.
Areas along the Mississippi, Minnesota, and Chippewa River basin have been deemed well above normal with a more than 50% chance of reaching moderate or major flood stage this spring.
NWS hydrologist Craig Schmidt warns that recent conditions, including additional snow and rain, have added 3-4 inches of water to the snowpack, which is well above normal for early March.
Meteorologist Jamie Cagle emphasizes the importance of a gradual melt, rather than a quick one, as a large amount of moisture in a short period of time could worsen flooding conditions.
The final spring flood outlook is expected to be released by the National Weather Service next Thursday.
