Minnesota experiences severe flooding and mudslides from heavy rain

Heavy rainfall and torrential downpours triggered severe flash flooding, mudslides, and road closures across southern and southeastern Minnesota on September 19 and 20, 2026. The storm system delivered significant precipitation, with totals exceeding eight inches near Spring Valley and more than seven inches in Lanesboro and Ellendale.

In Fillmore, Mower, and northern Houston counties, flood warnings were issued as rising waters overwhelmed local waterways. The flooding caused significant infrastructure damage, including a mudslide on State Highway 16 between Lanesboro and Whalan that forced a temporary closure. In Spring Valley, local officials reported that all streets were closed due to flooding in the downtown district.