'We are in an emergency situation': Sewage in floodwaters in Minnesota town

Flooding is causing major issues in numerous towns around Minnesota, including Cook , Waterville , Northfield, Dundas and Jackson – and in one small town there appears to be more than just water flowing through the streets.

In Madelia, a town of about 2,400 residents located 24 miles southwest of Mankato in Watonwan County, local police have advised residents to stay out of floodwaters as there is sewage mixed in.

"In order to prevent sewage backups area wide the city is emergency pumping sewage down the streets to the river," Madelia police announced Sunday. "Please do not take your kids through standing water or drive through it with golf carts or [all-terrain vehicles]. It’s probably not just water."

City officials have asked residents to limit water usage until further notice

"Avoid excess flushing of toilets, limit showers and baths, avoid running dishwashers, washing machines, or anything else that would create significant water discharge to our wastewater system," city officials said. "We will notify you as soon as the restrictions are lifted and the crisis has passed."

Parts of town are preparing to evacuate due to the flooding and an emergency shelter with assistance from the Red Cross has been set up at Madelia High School.

"There is no forecast for when the river will crest and at this time the waters are still rising. This is now historic flooding levels and we are in an emergency situation," police said at 4 p.m. Sunday. "At this time, all residents from 5th Street on the south side should have a plan in place in the event evacuation is needed."

Flooding is coming from the South Fork Watonwan River, which has reached a record level after the area was pounded with 8-10 inches of rain Thursday-Saturday.

For updates, follow the Madelia Police Department on Facebook .