Fillmore and Houston counties, which faced a drought last year, are now contending with excessive rainfall this summer. The change in weather resulted in flooding in both counties.
Neither county has reported any injuries due to flooding. However, both counties are experiencing significant cleanup efforts and are replacing gravel on roadways due to runoff.
Fillmore County Emergency Management Director Don Kullot explained that the county received 7 ½ inches on the west side of the county and 2 inches on the east side of the county at the end of June. The northern and western parts of Fillmore County have been hit the hardest. Fillmore has been replacing gravel and actively cleaning up the roadways in the northern and western parts of the county.
Houston County Sheriff Brian Swedberg and County Engineer Brian attributed the flooding in Houston County to recent rains that occurred to the west and north of the county. The highway department is actively replacing washed-out gravel and is engaged in ongoing cleanup efforts.
Kullot explained that Fillmore County is still getting damage estimates from cities, townships, and the county, and will know by July 2 if they will be declaring an emergency disaster declaration or not. If they do it will open up state funds and resources for infrastructure. Kullot predicted that Fillmore County will declare an emergency.
Sheriff Brian Swedberg and County Engineer Brian Pogodzinski informed the commissioners at their meeting on June 25 that the minimal flood damage Houston County experienced does not warrant a disaster.
Businesses relying on visitors have been impacted.
Eagle Cliff Campground, located on the Root River east of Lanesboro, has seen a lot of damage due to mud and gravel causing quite a mess, according to Kullot.
Lawrence Lake Marina, located north of Brownsville on the Mississippi River, has been making the best of it until July 2 when they started sandbagging. Owner Kim Benson explained, “For sure, they will be closed July 3, 4, and 5 as the parking lot is covered with water up to the store, and the water is still climbing.”
Houston County Commissioners temporarily close Wildcat Park & Landing at 7 p.m. on June 25 due to flooding over the road. The park remains closed until at least July 11 when they will start accepting reservations. The electricity has not been shut off.
Mitchell Walbridge, city clerk of Lanesboro, stated that Riverview Campground was closed from June 22-26 due to heavy rainfall. Following its reopening, gravel had to be replaced and cleanup efforts were necessary. Subsequently, rain has affected trail conditions, resulting in fewer visitors on the trails. Outfitters have been impacted by the lack of tubers. Walbridge emphasized that this situation is “eating into their profits.”
There have been no official reports of damage to homes.
According to Spring Valley Clerk/Treasurer Deb Zimmer, the city managed to avoid any major damage, with the primary concern being cleanup. The city has seen water in the basements at city hall and the community center before, so they do not store much in the basements. Relay for Life had supplies temporarily stored in the basement that got wet but are currently drying. Spring Creek Park is being cleaned up for the Relay for Life event on July 12.
There was word that four homes in Fountain had water in their basement for the first time, but Fountain City Clerk-Treasurer Mary Tjepkes reported she has not had any residents contact her about water in their basements. She did note that the city did have some problems with its water treatment plant, but nothing major.
Walbridge said that no homeowners had reported any flooded basements or damage to homes from the rain.
Houston County Emergency Management Director Mark Olson stated, “We are closely monitoring the Mississippi River at Shore Acres. If it goes as predicted, we should be okay.” On June 25 the county approved a temporary 30-day emergency no wake zone on the Mississippi River within the county.
Looking ahead, local authorities remain vigilant in monitoring the situation and are prepared to address any further developments as they arise.
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