National Weather Service says flooding risk has actually increased somewhat

The National Weather Service has issued an updated spring flooding forecast.  It says the potential for spring flooding has increased a little since the last forecast three weeks ago and the flooding potential remains above average, especially along the Mississippi River itself.

The Weather Service says there is a very high likelihood of at least moderate flooding along the Mississippi River.  It says major or even record flooding along the Mississippi is possible.  Its forecast for the Upper Iowa River continues to predict a slight chance of flooding in Decorah but an above average chance of flooding at Dorchester.

The Weather Service notes that there have been a few periods of mild weather in the past three weeks which have allowed some of the snow cover to melt.  But it also notes there have been several more snow storms as well.  It concludes, "The overall snow cover and water equivalent is equal to or higher than it was a few weeks ago."