Governor Walz to send National Guard to help flooding response

Late Thursday, Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order activating the Minnesota National Guard to support flood operations in Northeastern Minnesota.

“As severe weather pushes flooding beyond historic highs, I’m incredibly grateful that the members of our National Guard have again raised their hands to help their neighbors,” Governor Walz said in a press release. “I’ve seen firsthand the impact flooding is having on our farmers and communities, and we will ensure that our fellow Minnesotans continue to receive the support they need.”

Sheriff and emergency management directors of St. Louis and Koochiching counties requested the addditional support.

Heavy spring rains fell on frozen lakes throughout the Rainy River Basin in far northern Minnesota late in April. The rain and rapid snowmelt caused significant lake and river flooding throughout the region. Officials say more rain could push many lake and river levels beyond their historic highs of 2014 and 1950.

According to the press release, Executive Order 22-13 will remain in effect until the emergency conditions caused by the flooding subside or until June 10, whichever occurs first.