SE Minnesota Rivers Are Dangerous Right Now
The weather has turned the corner, and we are all thinking spring outdoor activities. If your perfect springtime activity includes canoeing or kayaking on the Cannon or Straight Rivers, put those plans on hold for now.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has a website devoted to river levels and currently, the Straight and Cannon Rivers are quite dangerous to paddlers. The Cannon River at Co. Hwy. 29 below Faribault, MN is currently running 'Very High', which means it is extremely dangerous for those wanting to get out.
The Straight River near Faribault, MN and the Straight River at Owatonna, W Bridge St are also running 'Very High' and 'High' respectively. The same could be said for the South Zumbro River in and around Rochester.
With the possibility of rain, later this week expected the river levels may rise and cause the current to increase. If any area river does begin to flood the surrounding area MnDOT wants to remind you that: Driving on closed roads can result in a fine of $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail, and MnDOT warns that six inches of water will reach the bottom of most cars. A foot of water can cause a vehicle to float.
The MN DNR recommends keeping a close eye on river levels as the date of your planned trip approaches, and river levels are subject to rapid change based on precipitation and other factors.