Emergency declaration for 35 MN counties extended

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton says he's unsure whether he'll need to call a special legislative session to approve state aid to flood damaged communities.

Dayton and other members of the state executive council met briefly Monday to extend an emergency declaration for 35 counties for another 30 days. Afterward, the governor said the situation is still unfolding as river levels continue to rise.

Dayton says he expects a new $3 million disaster assistance account will be exhausted, but says he views a special session is a "last recourse."

Dayton plans to visit hard-hit areas around the Twin Cities Tuesday. He expects to travel to Warroad Wednesday.

Meanwhile,

St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman has declared a state of emergency as the city braces for its worst flooding since 2001.

The Mississippi River is predicted to rise another 2 feet before cresting in St. Paul on Thursday. At the peak, waters will reach a projected 6.5 feet above flood stage.

The disaster declaration would allow the city to seek reimbursement for flood related expenses if the federal government releases relief funds to Minnesota. St. Paul has already spent an estimated $1.7 million to prepare for flooding.