Cold Snap Lowers Flood Forecast For 2 Minn. Rivers

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The recent cold snap in Minnesota has pushed down the forecasted flood crests of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers by more than one foot, but state officials says residents along the rivers shouldn't relax.

An updated flood forecast for Minnesota released Friday afternoon still predicts major flooding up and down the Red River Valley and experts say water levels in Moorhead could top the historic 2009 flood.

National Weather Service meteorologist John Margraf says a second crest statewide is expected sometime in April. Its height will depend on precipitation and how quickly the snow in the various watersheds melts.

He says the areas of immediate concern are St. Paul, Hastings and Red Wing.

The second crest is expected to be higher along the Mississippi River than along the Minnesota River.