A look back at the 1997 Red River flood

Grand Forks floodwall
In 1997 water was four to five feet deep on this street, now protected by a flood wall.
MPR Photo/Dan Gunderson

Twelve years ago, back in 1997, Grand Forks was hit by the unimaginable -- record flood waters and a fire that destroyed much of downtown Grand Forks.

As the flood unfolded, reporter Laura McCallum followed three families in the Lincoln Drive neighborhood.

Dear reader,

Your voice matters. And we want to hear it.

Will you help shape the future of Minnesota Public Radio by taking our short Listener Survey?

It only takes a few minutes, and your input helps us serve you better—whether it’s news, culture, or the conversations that matter most to Minnesotans.

Volume Button
Volume
Now Listening To Livestream
Cathy Wurzer
On Air
Morning Edition with Cathy Wurzer