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2023 Flood Information
Washington County Flood Inundation Map
National Weather Service Flood Forecasts
On March 23, 2023, the National Weather Service provided an updated flood forecast for the St. Croix River, which indicated the probability of a major flood event this year. A major flood event is triggered when the river reaches an elevation of 689’, which has an 11% chance of occurring in any given year. Considering the current snow pack conditions throughout the state, the prediction for this year is 80%.
National Weather Service - Current and Forecasted St. Croix River Levels
National Weather Service - Short-term Flood Probability Graph
National Weather Service - Flood Probability Graph
DNR MNTopo Elevation Interactive Map
Access this mapping tool to determine approximate elevations on an individual property. This information can then be used to compare flood level predictions issued by the National Weather Service.
MNTopo Interactive Map
Directions: Type "Bayport" in the quick search bar on the upper left side of the screen. Using the toolbar on the upper right side of the screen, click on the "Basemaps" icon. A drop down menu will appear, then click on the "Imagery" icon. Here you can drag the map to search for a specific property.
Updates
April 21, 2023
After lowering the predicted river levels multiple times over the past two weeks, the National Weather Service's new prediction indicates a likelihood of the St. Croix River reaching a level of 690’ by next Wednesday, April 26, which is roughly one foot higher than the current level. Affected properties should be cognizant of this potential rise and prepare for higher levels. Please stay informed on current and forecasted river levels via the link to the National Weather Service listed above.
Currently, the city has about 400 sandbags still available for delivery. Following flood conditions, residents with sandbags that have not been contaminated with river water may restack bags on a pallet and place them at the end of the driveway for pickup by the city. Sandbags that have been contaminated with river water are considered hazardous material and require appropriate disposal. The city will also pickup these sandbags in the same manner as those that have not been in contact with river water, but residents will be charged $.50 per bag for disposal. Please contact City Hall after the flooding has receded to make a collection request.
April 10, 2023
The National Weather Service is predicting river levels in excess of 690’ by the end of the week. Residents are encouraged to review the flood correspondence dated March 14 (see link below) and make final flood preparations, including the following:
- Remove possessions from your house and yard that may be negatively impacted by high river levels.
- Plug all drains, toilets, and sinks in the lower level of your house to stop river water from entering the city’s sewer system and help prevent sewer backups. If you are uncomfortable completing this work, please consult a licensed plumber.
- Make a request to City Hall for sandbags, if appropriate for your property. Sandbags will be provided on a first come, first served basis.
- Make a plan for vehicle parking and/or storage if flood levels impact your property. Temporary on-street parking of vehicles and trailers will be allowed on streets located out of the floodplain/flood prone areas. Keep in mind, street closures may be put into effect at 685’, so please plan accordingly.
April 3, 2023
The National Weather Service NOAA website is currently forecasting river levels to reach 680.4’ by April 10. Although that level is 7 feet below the minor flood stage, warmer temperatures and increasing runoff from snow melt will likely exceed that prediction. Visit the National Weather Service website for updates.
The city has already prepared roughly 2,500 sandbags and will continue bagging this week. The city will try to accommodate resident requests for sandbags, but cannot guarantee sandbag availability on a given date.
Xcel Energy is monitoring river levels to identify the need for disconnection of gas and/or electric meters for properties subject to flood conditions. If river levels reach major flood stages, Xcel crews will be in Bayport on a daily basis to provide emergency disconnect services. If you feel the river levels have reached critical points in relation to your gas meter and electrical components, please contact Xcel Customer Service at 1-800-895-4999. Flood related tips can also be found on their website Xcel Energy Flood Resources.
March 23, 2023
The National Weather Service's predictions remain largely unchanged from two weeks ago, but do include a small uptick in greater flood risk. The current forecast for potential severe river flooding starts the week of April 3 and runs through the middle of May. Click on the National Weather Service link above to view the short-term flood probability graph that estimates the flood risk for week periods in the short term (two months).
Please remember that predicting this far out is highly variable based on a number of conditions. At the same time, residents and property owners should start to prepare for a potential major flood event. Please click on the March 14, 2023 link above for flood preparation suggestions.
The city will begin flood preparations on March 27, which includes filling and taking requests from property owners for sandbags. Delivery of sandbags will be based on river levels March 27-March 31 and the ability to fulfill requests. The city will try to accommodate all requests, but cannot guarantee sandbag availability on a given date. Please contact City Hall if you have specific questions regarding potential flooding.