The National Weather Service in La Crosse has issued river flood warnings for the Cedar River at Austin until 11:30 a.m. on Saturday and Dobbins Creek at Austin until 1:20 a.m. on Saturday.

The combination of snowmelt and rainfall has caused flooding along portions of the Cedar River, Zumbro River, and Dobbins Creek. Some ice jamming is expected, which could lead to rapid fluctuations in river levels.

At 4:05 a.m. on Friday, the Cedar River stage was at 12.3 feet. Flood stage is 15 feet. The river is forecasted to rise to about 15.3 feet today and minor flooding is expected. The river is forecasted to drop below flood stage later today. At 15 feet, the City of Austin takes specific actions to warn people and businesses.

At 3:30 a.m., the Dobbins Creek Stage was 11.6 feet. The flood stage is 11 ½ feet. The stage will continue to rise to an expected 12 feet this morning before falling below the flood stage. Minor flooding is occurring and forecasted to continue.

High water is still causing problems with roads throughout the state including Austin. This morning, the Minnesota Department of Transportation gave an update that exit 183 on Interstate 90 near Austin is now open but the exit 177 to Highway 218 north and 14th street is closed due to high water.