River flood watch in effect for Mississippi River in St. Cloud

(AP File Photo/Brainerd Dispatch, Steve Kohls)

ST. CLOUD, Minn. – The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the Mississippi River, affecting the counties of Stearns, Sherburne and Benton beginning late Wednesday night until further notice.

The forecast is based on the large amount of rain the area has recieved over the past several days, and the watches have been put into effect because there is still some uncertainty on timing and heights of the crest. When more certainty has been established, warnings will be issued if necessary.

At 9:15 p.m. Monday, the stage was 8 ft. and flood stage may be reached by Thursday morning.

Other areas in Minnesota under a river flood watch include:

•  The Minnesota River at Savage, affecting Dakota, Hennepin and Scott counties.
• South Fork Crow River at Delano, affecting Wright County.
• The Mississippi River at Anoka, affecting Anoka and Hennepin counties.
• The Mississippi River at St. Paul, affecting Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties.
• The Mississippi River near Hastings, affecting Dakota, Washington and Pierce counties.
• The Mississippi River at Red Wing, affecting Goodhue and Pierce counties.

Information courtesy of the National Weather Service