ABERDEEN, S.D. (Press Release) – The spring flood outlook for rivers and streams in northeast South Dakota, portions of central South Dakota, and portions of west central Minnesota has been released.

Due to the wet conditions across the area late last summer into last fall, and the increasing snow pack over the last 6 to 8 weeks, the chances for minor, moderate, or major flooding are above normal across the northern and eastern part of the area, with minimal chances of flooding expected along the Moreau and Bad river basins.

The flood threat through this spring, both in location and severity, will largely be determined by future rain or snowfall, and how fast the melting of the snowpack occurs.

The outlook for the next two weeks is for higher chances for near to above normal precipitation, and higher chances for below normal temperatures. The 30 day outlook for the month of March shows equal chances for below, near, or above normal precipitation, and higher chances for below normal temperatures. The 90 day outlook for March through May shows equal chances for below, near, or above normal precipitation and temperatures.

The chances for river flooding are generally below normal west of the James River Valley, with the exception of the Grand River basin, where minor flooding is expected. Along and east of the James River Valley, increased chances of moderate to major flooding are expected, including the James River basin and the Big Sioux river basin.

You can find a complete report here: https://www.weather.gov/abr/2019springfloodoutlook.