DPS: Thousands Of Motorcyclists Expected On The Roads This Weekend

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging caution on the roads this weekend, with as many as 30,000 motorcyclists expected to take part in the Fall Flood Run.

On Saturday, the DPS says the motorcyclists will take the roads along the Mississippi and St. Croix River valleys between the Twin Cities and Winona. So, the DPS is asking motorists and riders to work together for a safe event.

"We ask riders to make smart, safe choices to keep themselves, their passengers and others safe when they are on the road," Lt. Tiffani Schweigart, Minnesota State Patrol, said. "Riders need to make their own safety a priority this weekend and always."

According to the DPS, motorcycle deaths this year have already surpassed the motorcycle deaths in 2014 – 51 this year compared to 2014's 46.

Southeast Minnesota law enforcement agencies will have extra patrols during the event, along with the Minnesota State Patrol.