Area waterways recede as rainfall eases

High river levels persist in Carver County as rains continue to fall well above average for the year.

After reaching historic levels not seen since 1965, the Minnesota River was in moderate flood stage at 31 feet just over a week ago and receding after the rains forecast for the Fourth of July weekend did not pour down like earlier showers. The river was expected remain in minor flood stage through most of last and this week with drier conditions anticipated. Many roads along the Minnesota River are still underwater and closed.

The Crow River was in minor flood stage at about 11 feet just over a week ago, and was forecast to fall out of flood stage last week. Most roads in this area have reopened although some township roads may still be closed, reported Ari Lyksett, Carver County chief communications officer.

As the county continues to monitor all local highways and roads for flooding, she indicated efforts now shift to collecting initial damage assessments and impacts from cities and townships.