Minn. to activate center in response to floods
by The Associated Press

ST. PAUL -- Minnesota is set to activate its emergency operations center Wednesday because of widespread flooding around the state.

State Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Kris Eide says requests for help and equipment are increasing from communities around Minnesota.

This week, Gov. Tim Pawlenty declared a state of emergency in 28 Minnesota counties facing possible flooding.

About 280 Minnesota Army National Guard soldiers will be on the ground in Moorhead on Wednesday to help with dike patrol and traffic control.

In addition, the Minnesota State Patrol has a helicopter in the Moorhead area and about 30 troopers available Wednesday for traffic control support.