Less than six months after major flooding in March, the Dell Rapids area was hit worse with flooding starting on September 12th.  Rain totals from two nights of storms on September 10th and 11th ranged from eight to ten inches which led to historic flooding of the Big Sioux River.

The river rose to a record high of 16.72 feet during the evening of Friday, September 13th.  The record level caused major water damage and displaced many families from their homes.

The community of Dell Rapids rose to action for those in need.  Dell Rapids City Administrator Justin Weiland praised numerous people for all their help.  The Dell Rapids City Public Works Department pulled rotating 24 hour shifts to make sure the city’s sewer system didn’t back up into people’s homes, plus they waded through flood waters to save city infrastructure.  Local businesses donated property for anyone who was impacted by the flood to store items, allowed sandbags to be stored and collected from their property, and donated meals.  Volunteer groups were set up to help direct those who were in need of help to get the things that they needed.  Organizations also helped to provide hotel rooms for those in need, and local fundraisers have also been held for those affected by the flood.

River levels have started to drop in the last week.  As of Wednesday, September 18th, the Big Sioux River level was at 14.5 feet.  The river is predicted to continue to drop to near the 13-foot mark by Monday, September 23rd.  As the waters recede, expectations are more damage may be revealed that is yet unknown.

Property owners and tenants affected by the two floods this year have asked the city if anything could be done during the council’s regular meeting on Monday, September 16th.  They noted that some cities, such as Sioux Falls, have purchased properties prone to flooding.  However, the city mentioned during the meeting that the City of Dell Rapids does not have the income to do something like that.  Administration did mention that they would continue to research different options that might be available and communicate findings to the property owners.  Meanwhile, members of the council said that they would do what they could legally do as a city entity to help those in need and give them guidance on how to move forward with any restoration or construction work on the homes in the future.