After recent rains, again heavy at times, the National Weather Service issued a flood warning for the river at Aitkin.
As of Thursday afternoon, the river rose to 12.2 feet. Flood stage is at 12 feet. The weather service is forecasting the river will continue to rise to nearly 13.3 feet by Monday afternoon before receding.
The Aitkin County Sheriff's office reported four to five farms in the Cedar Brook area are affected once the flood stage reaches 12 feet.
At 13 feet, some roads are covered with water.
This crest compares to a previous high crest of 15.3 feet on May 16, 1986.
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The weather service reported strong winds are expected across the region, especially on the Iron Range and the Arrowhead. With saturated soils, gusty winds could result in a threat for uprooted trees.
More thunderstorms could add to the saturation level.
There are chances for thunderstorms from Saturday into the middle of next week.
"It is possible that some storms this weekend could be strong or severe over portions of the area," the weather service reported. "In addition, heavy rainfall will also be possible."
For updated information on the flood warning, go to www.weather.gov/dlh and click on the river information section.
