Many factors go into forecasting floods, which is why projections can change so drastically, and so often. But there is a process to flooding in the Red River Valley that we all should keep in mind as the crest nears.

Hydrologist Steve Buan said, “snow has to disappear first, go into water, then the ditches have to clear up, and then the river can flood.”

Once the ice melts, the water will flow to the river faster. This year, water from west of Fargo is expected to have the biggest impact on the Red in Fargo and that may take some time.

According to Baun we may start to see the river come up, but the real true impact of flooding probably will not be until, at the very earliest, early next week.

Read the rest of the article at WDAY.