Salvation Army Helping in Aftermath of Severe Weather and Flooding in Minnesota
Flooding and high winds in Minnesota
International Falls
Officials in Koochiching County suspect nothing will stop Rainy Lake from rising at least another foot in the next day. As the lake and Rainy River rise, volunteers work non-stop to fill sandbags to help save homes.
"We've been here since Friday," said Beverly Mayfield, International Falls Salvation Army leader. "We are providing fuel for the volunteers, three meals a day and all of the snacks and fluids they need to keep them going."
Officials say if the lake increases by more than a foot, hundreds of homes could be affected. By comparison, in 2002 the last time there was water at this level, 139 homes suffered damage, officials said this flood could be much worse. In part because many more areas along the Rainy River are impacted and it takes weeks for the water level to drop.
Adding to the challenges neighbors already face, more rain is in the forecast. According to national weather service, Rainy Lake will not crest until mid-July meaning the lake will continue to rise.
Salvation Army volunteers from Hibbing, Brainerd and the Twin Cities have joined the International Falls force with reinforcements on the way next week. In addition to the personnel help, the Salvation Army office in Roseville sent up a truck full of supplies including cleaning kits, water, and snacks.
Albert Lea
Salvation Army volunteers and staff are responding to the needs of three communities in Southern Minnesota by providing immediate nourishment for emergency responders and residents dealing with power outages, wind damage and flooding. Nearly 200 people have already been served in the cities of Maple Island, Alden and Albert Lea.
"The Hollandale Fire Department sent out a few generators on our behalf in Maple Island," said Captain Jim Brickson, Albert Lea Salvation Army leader. "Whenever the power goes out, our highest concern is for homebound seniors and those with disabilities."
Brickson said their main job has been providing cold water, sandwiches and snacks and the response continues.
"We have started to see a slow down and may be able to wrap up our response for today," he said. "But it looks like there is an 85% chance of severe weather expected this evening. That is not welcome news for anyone."
Donations for the disaster relief can be made online or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769). Please designate for disaster relief.