Information for residents and townships affected by flooding/high water
Rapidly melting snow is leading to high water and some flooding in various parts of the county. The St. Louis County Sheriff's Office - Emergency Management, Public Works, and other departments are working together and in partnership with townships, cities, and other agencies to prepare, closely monitor the situation, and respond as needed.
National Weather Service - Duluth forecast: 2023 Spring Flooding Information and Resources (weather.gov)
Road closures:
If you encounter water on a roadway, turn around. Just a few inches of water can wash a vehicle off the road. It also can mask hazards beneath the surface. Report unsafe road conditions by calling 911. If barricades have been placed to close a road, do not drive around them.
View map: St. Louis County roads currently closed
Information for property owners:
Protect your home (or other structures) by removing snow from near the foundation. Other flood preparation tips: Floods | Ready.gov
If you have a septic system, here's guidance from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency on what to do before, during and after a flood: What to do with your septic system during a flood (state.mn.us)
If your private well has flooded, it may be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites that could make you sick. Disinfecting Flooded Private Water Wells (state.mn.us) St. Louis County Public Health can request a free well test kit through MDH on your behalf. Please contact:
Diane Seiloff Yourczek (Iron Range and northern half of county) 218-471-7609 or seiloffd@stlouiscountymn.gov
Susan Van Norman (Duluth area and southern half of county) 218-725-5291 or vannormans@stlouiscountymn.gov
If your property sustains structural damage due to flooding, you may be eligible for some property tax relief. Use this form to submit your information. Note that damage to personal property, such as docks, vehicles, or watercraft, is not eligible for relief.
Additional guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health: Floods - MN Dept. of Health (state.mn.us)
Sandbagging:
Flood-Fight Handbook - Preparing for a Flood (stlouiscountymn.gov)
Information for government jurisdictions:
Townships and cities should be taking the below steps in case an emergency declaration is declared:
- Have good documentation with photos of problem areas
- Have contractors invoice flood-related work separate from normal work
- Have contractors clearly identify the location of work on the invoice
- If material is brought in, the address and GPS coordinates of the source will be needed
- Measurements of roadway repairs for documentation. Ie: width, length and depth
- Differentiate between emergency, temporary and permanent work
- Identify a primary point of contact for communication with St. Louis County, Contractors, etc.
- Plan for public messaging and getting correct information out to residents
- Contact Emergency Management if any questions.