NORTH MANKATO — Heavy rains are prompting local city officials and the Minnesota Department of Transportation to closely monitor road conditions in southern Minnesota.
A section of Judson Bottom Road in North Mankato is closed due to safety concerns regarding potential flooding and rock and mudslides. The road is closed between Lookout Drive and Valerie Lane until further notice.
City officials say the Minnesota River’s water level is rising quickly. They are urging the public to avoid entering the Judson Bottom area for any reason.
Several state roads are closed due to flooding, and the situation continues to change.
As of 8 a.m. Friday, Highway 13 is closed south of Waseca and Highway 19 east of Henderson. Temporary detours are in place.
MnDOT officials warn that roads may be closed or restricted without warning as flash flooding is difficult to predict.
Crews will reopen the roads when deemed safe. Highways and bridges impacted by floods need to be inspected for damage and safety prior to opening.
When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.
Another round of heavy rainfall is expected Friday night through early Saturday across portions of southern and central Minnesota, according to the National Weather Service. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected by Saturday afternoon.
Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible in several areas of the state, including Blue Earth, Faribault, Le Sueur, Nicollet, Sibley and Waseca counties.
For more information including road conditions, closures and detour routes, visit: www.511mn.org.