FARGO, N.D. — The Red River has topped major flood stage in Fargo, but forecasters say the river should peak at an earlier date and a lower height than was predicted when the city began its flood preparation.

The river topped the 30-foot mark Sunday night, which is 12 feet above the level where the river spills its banks and the point that the National Weather Service considers major flood stage, even though few structures in the city are threatened.

Forecasters say the river should peak Wednesday at 37 feet, which means the water is unlikely to test most of the clay levees and sandbag dikes that were built when forecasters predicted a higher crest.

Officials say the flood forecast improved because of an ideal melt cycle and a diminishing threat of precipitation.