Dusk on the Minnesota River

River walls protect Mankato

Flood preparedness is a year-round effort for city of Mankato staff. City staff inspects the river walls and supporting pumping stations and monitors the river level on an as-needed basis. Once the river reaches high water levels, 24-hour dike walks are done to ensure continued safety for the public.
 

City of Mankato staff closely observes any areas where there is standing water. When property or safety issues cause concern, respective areas are closed. Citizens are asked to call 507-387-8661 (24-hour service) if they see standing water.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends homeowners be prepared for flooding, particularly those who live in low-lying areas near water.  FEMA provides information about how every individual can take steps to better prepare themselves and their families:

• Get a kit
• Make a plan
• Be informed about your flood risk.  The highest level was in 1993 at just over 30 feet and the second highest was in 1965 at 29 feet. 

Ongoing flood control activity in Mankato includes:

• Maintenance of existing facilities and equipment
• Inspection procedures
• Monitor river levels and trends
• Recognize hazards and risks
• Receive updates from National Weather Service about snow pack and flood level probabilities
• Review recommended methods of construction and other technical information related to flood control
• Coordinate activities with other governmental units--cities and other jursdictions and organizations 
   

The city follows a list of activities, developed with officials from the United States Army Corps of Engineers, outlining what action will occur based upon the water level of the Minnesota River.  Learn more about flood control in Mankato.

It's important to adhere to closures for safety purposes because although the water looks calm, there is often pooling water and the current is strong.  Sediment deposited by flood waters create very slippery surfaces (more so than ice).  Because of this, walking in shallow water (even less than an inch) can be dangerous and life threatening.

Mankato has more than 10,000 sandbags available. City staff monitors if sandbags need to be filled for closures and on availability of pre-filled sandbags.

For more information about flood control activity in Mankato contact staff at 311 or 507-387-8600.