The recent heat blast and high levels of precipitation have kept Hastings on its collision course with floodwaters, and residents and businesses along the Mississippi River will likely see the swell starting this Sunday.
According to the latest National Weather Service (NWS) forecast for the Hastings Lock and Dam 2 Tailwater, a minor flood stage, which ranges from 15-17 feet, will materialize on April 16.
Over the subsequent days, the NWS forecast predicts that the flooding in Hastings will reach a level just under a moderate stage (17-18 feet), with an anticipated high-water mark of 16.9 feet on April 20.
10 houses on 1st Street have been identified as vulnerable to inundation by the City, as well as several segments of roadways and areas within Jaycee Park, Lake Rebecca, River Flats and Levee Park. Fortunately for those in the crosshairs, Hastings Public Works Director Ryan Stempski has said that it would take a flood stage measuring 22 feet to “directly impact” the private properties.
The City Council has already laid out their mitigation strategies and has said that they will continue to monitor the ever-changing projections and respond accordingly. City Staff is working alongside the Hastings police and fire departments and Dakota County to prepare for the anticipated flooding.
As things stand, the City is prepared to supply residents and businesses with materials to create sandbags and other barriers for their properties.
While the City said their staff will not be deployed to help build barriers, they are positioning resources that they will deliver to curbside locations. Branchline Church has been designated as an emergency response hub, and the City will be utilizing their lot as a staging area for provisions.
The City is encouraging residents to stay tuned to their social media platforms and website for any notifications regarding road closures or other preparations.
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