Gov. Dayton surveying flood, storm damage in southwestern Minnesota

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Gov. Mark Dayton is visiting several communities in southwestern Minnesota Friday to get a firsthand look at storm and flood damage from the last few weeks. 

The governor has declared a state of emergency for 36 counties affected by severe weather since early June, including tornadoes, torrential rain and flash flooding. The declaration directs all state agencies to help local authorities respond to flooding. 

Dayton will make stops in Slayton, Walnut Grove and Balaton—three towns that have been hit by heavy flooding this week. U.S. Sen. Tina Smith and Congressman Collin Peterson, who represents the area, will join Dayton on his visits.