Governor Tim Walz visited Hastings Friday morning to meet with local legislators, city leaders and residents to discuss the city’s spring flood preparations.
Governor Walz was joined by Sen. Judy Seeberger, Rep. Shane Hudella, city council members, city engineers and administrators, and local law enforcement.
“It was great to be in Hastings today to discuss how our local, state, and federal partners are working behind the scenes to prepare for spring flooding and keep Minnesotans safe,” Walz said. “From the Rainy River Basin and Red River to the Mississippi, the state stands ready to provide assistance to local communities across the state as we prepare for a tough spring flooding season.”
Need to get prepared? Here’s a list from Homeland Security and Emergency Management:
The following list includes action steps everyone can take to prepare for any type of flooding:
- Assemble an emergency kit: It should include provisions for you and your family to live on for a at least three days. Do not forget medications, medical equipment needs, phone chargers and pet supplies.
- Make an emergency plan: Communicate and practice that plan with your family. Choose an evacuation route. Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government.
- Get a NOAA Weather Radio: Listen for information, including advisories, watches and warnings. Watch news reports for information and sign up for text alerts.
- Prepare your home: Elevate appliances such as the furnace, water heater and electric panel. Install “check valves” to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home. Construct barriers to stop water from entering the building and seal basement walls.
- Get flood insurance: Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage and any disaster assistance will not cover all damages. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider additional coverage. Flood insurance takes 30 days to go into effect, so purchase now to protect your family. DPS blog on flood insurance.
Alice J. Roden started working for Trending Insurance News at the end of 2021. Alice grew up in Salt Lake City, UT. A writer with a vast insurance industry background Alice has help with several of the biggest insurance companies. Before joining Trending Insurance News, Alice briefly worked as a freelance journalist for several radio stations. She covers home, renters and other property insurance stories.