FARGO, ND (Valley News Live) – All around Oslo, MN, roads are closed due to flooding. However, despite these circumstances, the people of Oslo are moving forward step by step because they have already faced flooding.

“You are cut off from the rest of the world for one to two weeks.” said Scott Kosmatkas, the owner of Kosmatkas Market in Oslo. “We have done this many times before. It’s always discouraging when the flood comes, it’s a lot of stress for everyone.

According to Mayor Erika Martens, the city is doing well with the permanent flood protection in place. While the systems have been around for years, Komatkas said they revamped it about 10 years ago. Currently, the National Guard is helping the city get supplies while the floodwaters are still there.

“We’re doing very well,” Mayor Martens said. “Our permanent dike system is holding up. We have 16 guard members who walk along the seawall and help with any kind of services we need to get in and out of town. We stand firm here.

While the city is essentially on an island due to flooding, businesses in the city remain open. According to the 2020 US Census, 239 people live in Oslo, and Komatkas appreciates the community’s efforts as they once again deal with flooding.

“We support each other, business-wise,” Komatkas said. “The restaurant supports me, I support the restaurant, the bar supports me and vice versa. So yes, we all work together.

There is no timetable on when the water will recede, but it could be affected by rain in the forecast this week.

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