PHOTOS: Cannon River Continues to Rise, Carleton College Flooded

The Northfield City Council voted Friday morning to extend the emergency declaration for the current flood event in order to aid the city's response.

Northfield Mayor Dana Graham signed a flood-related emergency declaration Thursday, but the declaration could not be continued for more than three days without approval from the City Council.

The City Council approved a motion to continue the local emergency declaration beyond three days.

The city of Faribault and Rice County have also declared an emergency.

The Northfield Police Department continues to warn residents of expected flooding in and along the Cannon River. It's the second time in that many months that Northfield residents have had to prepare for dangerously high water levels.

Last month, the Cannon river rose to 897 feet and flooded parts of the city.

As a result of the saturated conditions and heavy rain amounts received across the region this week, the Cannon River is rising at a very fast rate.

City officials observed a six inch rise in the river level in the span of about an hour Thursday morning.

River levels will continue to rise at a very fast rate Thursday, and the National Weather Service predict the river will rise at least another 1.5 inches from the current level.

If this happens, the river elevation would reach approximately 900 feet, according to a news release.

Downtown businesses along the Cannon River and Carleton College are taking steps to protect their property,
buildings, and contents.

If your home or business is in a flood prone area, and you have not prepared for, or taken protective measure, you should take action now.

The Northfield Police Department is asking citizens to use caution during this flood event:

• Do not wade or swim in the Cannon River.
• Monitor children and do not allow them to approach the river.
• Do not enter streets, parks, or sidewalk areas that have been blocked, taped, or labeled as closed.
• If you encounter flooded streets, do not try to drive into or through the water.
• If you observe flooding related issues, call dispatch at (507) 645-4475.

For other general questions, call Chief Monte Nelson at (507) 663-9301.

Photo by Angella, used with permission