Watch Out For Low Power Lines If You’re On This Minnesota River

We all know that electricity and water don't mix-- and that's especially true if you're out on this Minnesota River right now.

Avoiding power lines is something we rarely have to worry about here in Minnesota, and it usually only happens after a severe summer storm moves through. But flooding in central and southwest parts of the state have created a potentially dangerous situation on the Minnesota River near Belle Plain.

Thanks to a Monday post on the Scott County Sherriff's Office Facebook page, we know now that there are low-lying power lines over that stretch of the river.

Well, the power lines are still at the same height they've always been-- it's the water level that's much higher. And that's thanks to all the rain that part of Minnesota has seen-- and the resulting higher waters on area streams and rivers.

Their post goes on to say, "The DNR notified us that because the river is so high right now, there are power lines hanging approximately four feet above the water surface. This a very real danger to boaters as the power lines can be very difficult to see."

Yikes. A low-lying power line-- only 4 feet off the water-- while you're zipping around on your boat, is definitely something you DON'T want to encounter! Stay safe out there!