Flood in Nobles County, Minnesota

Rainfall amounts across Nobles County from June 20-22 ranged from 4 to 10 inches. This rainfall resulted in widespread overland flooding across the county. Okabena Lake in Worthington also overflowed its banks, flooding the downtown area and residential properties surrounding the lake.

During peak flooding, there were 3 swift water rescues and a reported 6 stalled vehicles. Three apartment buildings and one home in Worthington needed to be evacuated, impacting 35 individuals. County-wide, 350 individuals reported flood damage. Of these, 5 residences were declared destroyed, 55 with major damage, and another 250 with minor damage.

There were 150 locations that reported flood damage to roads, culverts, and bridges. There were also 40 drainage ditches with major damages. Among numerous township, county, and state roads that were closed and damaged, Interstate 90 was also closed with water over the roadbed in many locations for up to 3 days. Seven of eleven municipalities declared flood damages. The Adrian School District reported water damage to 2 school facilities and there also were collapsed sewer pipes within the city. Preliminary damage assessments estimate loss to public infrastructure to be 3.6 million dollars.

A multi-day significant heavy rainfall event from June 20-22 resulted in widespread rain totals between 5 and 10 inches across southwest Minnesota. As rainfall reached area streams and rivers, major to record flooding was observed, devastating multiple towns and communities. Extensive overland flooding also resulted in significant impacts and damages. All river crest information is preliminary until made official by the gauge owner.

A Presidential Disaster Declaration was signed for Cottonwood, Jackson, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock Counties.