Flood Watch Issued for Red Lake River in Polk County, Minnesota

Rising water levels could trigger minor flooding as early as Monday morning

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:52pm

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a frozen river under a heavy, overcast sky, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of the natural environment.The impending flood on the Red Lake River in Polk County, Minnesota, serves as a sobering reminder of the raw power and unpredictability of nature.Crookston Today

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the Red Lake River in Crookston, Minnesota and surrounding areas of Polk County. River levels are expected to reach the 15-foot flood stage by early Monday, potentially leading to minor flooding near low-lying areas along the riverbank. Crookston Public Works will begin 24-hour monitoring of pumps, gates, and valves if levels reach 16 feet.

Why it matters

Flooding along the Red Lake River can impact roads, infrastructure, and access to rural areas in Polk County. Residents living near the river or in flood-prone zones should prepare for potential impacts and heed any emergency advisories from local officials.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the Red Lake River measured 11.7 feet as of Sunday morning, but projections show it could reach the 15-foot flood stage by early Monday. This would mark the beginning of minor flooding, with local impacts expected near low-lying areas along the river. If levels reach 16 feet, Crookston Public Works will begin around-the-clock monitoring of pumps, gates, and valves to manage water flow and reduce infrastructure strain.

  • As of Sunday, April 12 at 9 a.m., the Red Lake River measured 11.7 feet.
  • The Flood Watch is in effect from Monday, April 13 through Sunday, April 19.
  • The river is projected to reach the 15-foot flood stage by early Monday, April 13.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing flood watches and warnings.

Crookston Public Works

The municipal department that will monitor and manage water infrastructure if flood levels reach 16 feet.

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What’s next

If the Red Lake River continues to rise faster than expected, the National Weather Service may issue additional alerts or warnings for the Crookston area.

The takeaway

Residents in Polk County, especially those living near the Red Lake River or in flood-prone areas, should closely monitor the situation and heed any emergency advisories from local officials. Preparing property, checking sump pumps, and avoiding unnecessary travel through flooded areas are important steps to take.