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Sorlie Bridge, Greenway re-open as Red River at Grand Forks nears minor flood stages

The river at Grand Forks is expected to drop below 40 feet on Saturday, April 18. In Pembina, the river is cresting at 51.2 feet.

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An East Grand Forks Public Works Department pickup blocks access to the Sorlie Bridge in downtown Grand Forks as city crews prepare to set up closures to the bridge as the Red River continues to rise Wednesday, April 1. Eric Hylden / Grand Forks Herald

The Sorlie Bridge on DeMers Avenue opened at 3 p.m. Thursday, April 16. The bridge had been closed due to flooding.

Additional load limits and weight restrictions will remain in effect, and the bridge may not be able to accommodate some oversize vehicles or farm equipment, according to a release from the city of Grand Forks.

The Grand Forks Greenway also will re-open Thursday, the city announced. Pedestrians are still advised to use caution, and trails may be closed for debris removal and cleaning. Since dangerous trails may not be obvious, the city reminded residents not to go around barricades and to stay on dry trails.

The Red River will remain closed until the flood drops below 28 feet. Dog parks and Lincoln Park Drive also remain closed.

Around 1:45 p.m. Thursday, the Red River at Grand Forks was observed at 42.09 feet and was continuing to recede steadily. The river is expected to drop below the 40-foot threshold for minor flood stages on Saturday.

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The Red River at Oslo remains in major flood stages but is continuing to gradually recede, and the river at Pembina is expected to crest Monday at 51.2 feet. All tributaries are continuing to recede.

The National Weather Service forecasts a warming trend this weekend and through next week, with near-normal temperatures and increased chances of precipitation projected. There is a slight chance of rain Sunday, with only light amounts forecast, according to the NWS.

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