Free sandbags in Olmsted County, MN
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Where to get free sandbags in Olmsted County, MN
When storms threaten, the City of Rochester and Olmsted County Emergency Management have offered a limited number of sandbags to residents with localized water problems, picked up at the Public Works and Transit Operations Center, 4300 E. River Road NE; residents are asked to return them after the event. Based on a June 2024 notice; check with the city before going.
- Olmsted County and City of Rochester: sandbagsolmstedcounty.gov
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Olmsted County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Olmsted County, we email you right away with what to do. We also give you a heads-up a day ahead when NOAA forecasts severe storms or flash-flooding rain.
Want alerts for your exact street instead? Check your address and sign up there.
Is your home in a flood or fire zone?
Type your address and see your flood, wildfire, earthquake and other hazard risks on one map, free. No sign-up needed.
Get official emergency alerts
Search for "Olmsted County emergency alerts" on your county's official website, and turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts in your phone's settings.
Before the storm: a quick checklist
- Pick up sandbags early. Supplies run out once a storm is in the forecast.
- Fill bags about halfway and lay them flat, overlapping like bricks, at doorways and the garage door.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and the storm drain in front of your house.
- Move valuables, papers and electronics off the floor.
- Take photos or a video of your rooms and belongings for insurance.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don't drown.
Questions people ask
Where can I get free sandbags in Olmsted County, MN?
When storms threaten, the City of Rochester and Olmsted County Emergency Management have offered a limited number of sandbags to residents with localized water problems, picked up at the Public Works and Transit Operations Center, 4300 E. River Road NE; residents are asked to return them after the event. Based on a June 2024 notice; check with the city before going.
How do I know if my home is in a flood zone in Olmsted County, MN?
Enter your address at mystormplan.com/check to see your FEMA flood zone and other hazards for your exact property, free.
How many sandbags do I need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 bags to build a wall 1 foot high and 20 feet long. Most homes use sandbags to steer water away from doorways and garage doors. Fill bags only about halfway so they lie flat and tight.