As the Minnesota River reaches its crest in Chaska, the city and voluntary organizations are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of affected residents. The river has surged against the temporarily closed Highway 41 bridge, creating swift currents and potential hazards for those near the shore.

Liz Timmerman, a commuter from Shakopee to Chaska, emphasized the importance of caution near the river, stating, "Even if you're near the shore, it can take you right out, so you've got to be really careful about it." Timmerman joined others at the levy to assess the rising water, which has been met with preparedness measures by the city.

Kevin Wright, Chaska's community engagement manager, reassured the community about the city's efforts in mitigating the flooding. The public works crews have been monitoring the river round the clock and have constructed protective berms on either side of the bridge.

"We have a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers certified levy that's up to 41 feet above the water," said Wright. "If the water were to try to sneak around the bridge, we're protected." The dedicated public works crew follows a specific set of flood response protocols when faced with rising river levels.

In response to the damage caused by the flooding, Carver County Emergency Management has begun collecting information. Additionally, the sheriff's office has announced that assistance is available through Crisis Cleanup, a member of Minnesota Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD).

Minnesota VOAD, the largest disaster response force in the state, aids coordination efforts among over 30 voluntary organizations. Currently, more than a thousand volunteers are actively engaged in the recovery process across Blue Earth, Jackson, Rice, Faribault, and St. Louis counties.

Ryc Lyden, the president of Minnesota VOAD, highlighted the organization's activities, which ranged from providing shelters and food to assisting with muck-out operations in flooded basements and floors. The nonprofit is also collaborating with the State Emergency Operations Center to efficiently respond to increasing requests during this widespread event.

Lyden acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the extensive geographic impact of this flooding, stating, "One of the things that's different about this one is it's so spread out." Despite this, Chaska City leaders remain optimistic that their downtown area will remain protected as the river reaches its crest.

"The good news is our downtown is still well protected," said Wright, acknowledging the efforts made to safeguard the city's core.

As the Minnesota River continues its ascendancy, the collaboration between the city, voluntary organizations, and dedicated volunteers reaffirms the resilience and unity among communities statewide in the face of natural disasters.