2021 Spring Flood Outlook Update

What's Happening Now

Warming temperatures will cause snowmelt and breaking up of ice on waterways the next several days. Plan on increased river levels on many streams and rivers. No flooding is forecast at this time, but those with interests near or along waterways should closely monitor water levels and keep up-to-date with the latest river forecasts.

The overall risk for Spring snowmelt flooding remains near normal. Above normal temperatures are forecast much of this week and this will melt much of any remaining snowpack across the area.

Click on a link below for more information:

What Can We Expect This Spring and Why

The overall risk for flooding is near normal this Spring for the mainstem of the Mississippi River and Tributaries.

Factors for a near-normal flooding risk this spring:

Overall drier conditions during the late Summer and Autumn of 2020 continued into this winter.
Limited snowpack this winter. Areas of deeper snowpack over northeast Iowa and southwest Wisconsin.
Lower soil moisture, not saturated like we saw last year. Higher soil moisture in some areas over northeast Iowa and southwest Wisconsin.
Frost depth is generally shallow this year ranging from 5 to 16 inches. Less frost in the ground suggests that once snow starts melting, there will be more infiltration into the soil and less runoff. We are now seeing some top layers of the ground melting thanks to warmer temperatures.
Cold, below normal temperatures through mid February, increased ice cover and thickness on area rivers but so far much of that ice has been melting in place thanks to a slower spring snowmelt.

Preparedness Information

A near-normal flood risk means the chances for spring snowmelt flooding are near normal based on historical data and current conditions. Future temperature and precipitation trends may increase or decrease the flooding threat, monitor information from the National Weather Service.
Live in a flood prone area? Consider flood insurance (may require 30 day notice).
Prepare your home by making sure your sump pump is working and consider a backup.

The next scheduled Spring Flood Outlook update will be issued on Thursday March 11th.

Please see our latest video briefing:

Latest Snow Depth Information

Click Here For An In-Depth Snow Analysis

Latest River Level Information

Mississippi River Basin

Lake City	Wabasha	Alma	Minnesota City Dam 5

Lake City	Wabasha	Alma	Minnesota City
Winona Dam 5A	Winona	Trempealeau Dam 6	La Crescent Dam 7

La Crosse	Genoa Dam 8	Lansing	Lynxville Dam 9

McGregor	Guttenberg Dam 10	Dubuque Dam 11	Dubuque