Melting snow causes rivers to rise across MN, prompts flood warnings

(KMSP) - Melting snow is causing rivers to rise throughout Minnesota, leading to flood warnings and closures across the state. 

Slow no-wake rules are now in effect on the St. Croix River in Washington County as the river has reached 683 feet. 

The Minnesota River Greenway in Burnsville, a paved regional trail along the Minnesota River, is temporarily closed due to flooding. The trail will remain closed from the Minnesota Riverfront Park Trailhead at the Interstate 35W bridge to the DNR boat landing under the Cedar Avenue Bridge until the floodwaters recede. 

High water levels have also forced the closure of two lock-and-dams along the Mississippi River in Minneapolis. The locks at Lower St. Anthony Falls and Lock and Dam 1 remain open for commercial vehicles, but all recreational boats are unable to get down the river. 

Water Street/Lilydale Road will also be temporarily closed starting Thursday, April 26 at 6 p.m, due to forecasted rising water levels of the Mississippi River. Water Street will be closed between Highway 13 and Plato Boulevard. 

"Closing Water Street is a preventative action for anticipated flooding," said Public Works Director Kathy Lantry. "We will continue to monitor the spring melt and respond as needed." 

The last time Water Street was closed due to anticipated flooding was in 2014. 

Officials are reminding boaters high water brings fast currents and logs and other debris can be easily hidden. Metro-area rivers are expected to crest this weekend or late next week

A full list of flood warnings can be found on the National Weather Service website.