Flood — Rock, Minnesota

2024-06-21 to 2024-06-25 · near Bruce, Rock, Minnesota

Event narrative

Rainfall amounts across Rock County from June 20-22 ranged from 2 to 7 inches. Widespread overland flooding ensued with additional moderate to major flooding along the Rock River and Split Rock Creek.

During peak flooding, numerous township, county, and state roads were under water and closed. A No Travel Advisory was issued by law enforcement. Interstate 90 was under water and briefly closed between Luverne and Worthington where a swift water rescue was conducted near mile marker 17. U.S. Highway 75 was also closed from Luverne to the Iowa state line.

In Luverne, numerous roads were reported under water and flood waters from the Rock River inundated Redbird Field and the Luverne City Park. Preliminary damage assessments estimate loss to public infrastructure to be at least 2 million dollars.

Wider weather episode

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.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (43.5025, -96.4512)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1196743. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.