Red River height at actionable stage as minor flooding expected on New Year's Eve

(Fargo, ND) -- Local officials are officially responding as the Red River is just below minor flooding stage.

The National Weather Service monitor for the Red River in Fargo is showing the water is now at 17.4 feet, just below the official flooding stage at 18 feet. The rise is due to December rainfall that mainly flowed into the river instead of of absorbing into frozen ground. The Red River is expected to rise to 21ft, still in a minor flood stage. 

The National Weather Service describes the action phase, which is met by reaching 17ft in the Red River at the Fargo monitoring location, as when the NWS or another partner needs to begin taking action to prepare for potential significant activity where water could cause issues. 

You can monitor the Red River's height by clicking here.