NEW ULM - Rainfall this week in the upper Minnesota River Valley, accompanied by snow melt has led the National Weather Service in Chanhassen to issue flood watches along the Minnesota River, in Granite Falls, New Ulm, Mankato, Jordan and Shakopee.
Along with the rainfall this week, above-average temperatures are expected this weekend. Highs of 40 to 45 are expected across much of the region, and will be pushing 50 in the lower Minnesota River Valley, according to the National Weather Service.
Flood stage in New Ulm is 796.0 feet, and that mark could be reached sometime in the next seven to 14 days, according to the NWS.
Ice and debris jams along the river are also a concern, according to the notice. Anyone who sees an ice or debris jam along the river is encouraged to report it to local law enforcement.
