River Flooding
There is about a 90 percent chance that the Minnesota River will reach a least 709 feet. This is about 7 feet higher than Black Dog Road and the Minnesota Riverfront Park. Both are expected to flood, as they routinely do. However, they are expected to be flooded to a significantly higher level than normal this spring. In fact, it is likely that the entire floodplain in the area will be under water.
Minnesota Riverfront Park & Minnesota River Greenway
Burnsville’s Minnesota Riverfront Park (600 Black Dog Road W.) and the adjacent Minnesota River Greenway trail are closed due to flooding. The portion of trail closed extends from Minnesota Riverfront Park to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources boat landing under the Cedar Avenue bridge. The closure will continue until flood waters recede.
I-35W
Beginning at 8 p.m. Sunday, March 24, Minnesota Department of Transportation crews will close the I-35W northbound ramps at Black Dog Road due to flooding from the Minnesota River. Note: these ramps may close earlier than 8 p.m. Sunday, March 24, if water rises earlier than predicted.
Crews had already planned to close the northbound I-35W ramps at Black Dog Road in early April to complete work as part of the I-35W Minnesota River Bridge replacement project that is currently underway. Once the ramps close on Sunday, the ramps will remain closed through early fall.
Localized Flooding
The City’s Public Works crews are working on removing snow piles and de-icing storm drains to try to minimize street flooding. However, with the continued rain, they may not be able to get them all open. Residents are encouraged to help by digging out storm drains in their neighborhoods if they are covered in snow and ice.
Backyard flooding and home drainage will also likely be a challenge over the next several days. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant about water in their yards and watch for water seepage in basements.
KARE 11 recently offered a few tips to help prepare your home for the chance of flooding: https://tinyurl.com/y33ylpl7