STILLWATER, Minn. – The melting snow may seem minor now, but one Minnesota city is getting ready for a lot more.  

Stillwater declared a state of emergency Tuesday evening. Spring flooding forecasts show the St. Croix River could rise to its highest level in 22 years.

On Thursday, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will start securing the Stillwater Lift Bridge. Next week, volunteers will start filling sandbags.  

Some parking lots and trails along the river will shut down starting Wednesday.  

This is a nationwide flood outlook from the National Weather Service. Stillwater and parts of the Twin Cities fall within an area where experts are forecasting some of the worst flooding in the country.

MORE: NOAA says delayed melt, more rain could mean "major" spring flooding along Mississippi River