Heavy Rains Cause Flooding of Trails Near Water Bodies

Heavy Rains Cause Flooding of Trails Near Water Bodies

This past weekend’s rains have put the Twin Cities into second place for the wettest year-to-date since 1871. Sunday’s 2.37 inches of rain topped the record for most rain in a day previously set in 1944.

The record rainfall has caused flooding of some Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) trails near Lake Nokomis, Minnehaha Creek, the Mississippi River and other water bodies. Please use caution when using paths or trails near those areas.

Additionally, Minnehaha Creek remains unsafe for paddling due to high, fast-moving water, downed trees and other debris, and limited clearance at some bridge underpasses.

Lake Nokomis Weir Holds

In mid-May, MPRB staff used sandbags to bolster the Lake Nokomis weir. To date, the weir (which is a barrier built across the creek’s connection point to Lake Nokomis) has prevented Minnehaha Creek from entering the lake.

The MPRB and Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) recently renovated the weir, which protects water quality in the lake and reduces the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species. Minnehaha Creek is infested with zebra mussels, which have not been found in Lake Nokomis.

Additionally, Hennepin County has shared flood safety tips, including:

1. Do not walk through moving water.
2. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving.
3. Do not drive into flooded areas – if you can’t see the road you cannot be sure the road is still completely intact.

For more information and updates on water levels, visit www.minnehahacreek.org.

Contact

MPRB
Robin Smothers, Communication and Marketing
612-230-6410
rsmothers@minneapolisparks.org