North Dakota Flood 2009

The worst case scenario has happened in North Dakota. After all the snow we received this winter (over five feet in some areas), all the experts agreed that if North Dakota experienced rapid snow melt, there would be danger of flooding. With the recent and steady warm temperatures, exactly that has happened. Rapid snow melt has placed the entire state of North Dakota in a flood warning, until further notice.

Fargo, North Dakota: Red River valley area prepares for flood

The Red River, which runs along the North Dakota/Minnesota border, is currently seven feet above flood stage and rising. Classes were canceled at Fargo's North Dakota State University and area high schools so students could assist in the sand-bagging efforts.

According to KXNet.com, Fargo city officials originally planned to fill one million sand bags, but they have upped their need, based on current forecasts for more precipitation, to nearly two million sand bags. It's estimated that 40 percent of the city of Fargo is currently protected from a 40-foot crest; however, the Red River is expected to crest to 41 feet by Friday.

Linton, North Dakota: Parts of city evacuated due to flood waters

The small town of Linton has been evacuating residents from the west side of town, known as 'Old Town'. Approximately 75 homes had to be evacuated due to rapidly rising flood waters. According to reports by Linton residents on KXNet.com, the flood waters were rising nearly one foot per hour.

Bismarck, North Dakota: Ice jams in the Missouri River causing flooding

Residents in the Fox Island area in south Bismarck have been requested to evacuate as a precaution as an ice jam in the Missouri River is backing up water, causing river water to flow across the roads in some areas. According to KXNet.com, the many sharp bends in the Missouri River can cause ice chunks to become stuck, which stops the river from flowing.

Beulah, North Dakota: More than 50 homes evacuated

Flooding along the Knife River near Beulah has over 50 homes being evacuated, and area officials say 12 people had to be rescued by boat. KXNet.com reports there is also flooding in Hazen and Zap.

Mott, North Dakota: Mayor says he's never seen so much water

Ice jams in the Cannonball River caused flooding in the small town of Mott. 14 homes have been evacuated so far, but area officials are keeping an eye on Lake Tschida, which is also rising rapidly.

Amtrak cancelling services in parts of North Dakota

According to local news reports, Amtrak is canceling the Empire Builder service for the areas of Devils Lake, Grand Forks, and Rugby. Passengers currently traveling east are stopping in Minot. There will be no Amtrak service until further notice, and Amtrak officials are estimating it could be several weeks before the tracks are cleared for service.

National Guard called in to help with area floods

The North Dakota National Guard has been deployed to the areas affected by flood to assist with sand bagging duties and rescuing people trapped by the flood waters. Two families in the Carson and New Leipzig areas were rescued from their farmsteads by Blackhawk helicopter Sunday night.

Sources:

KXNet.com

"Central North Dakota Weather: Snowfall Expected to Reach Five Feet", Associated Content