CONTACT: Lori Getter | lori.getter@wisconsin.gov | 608-516-0293
Storm Update – 6:00 pm
Heavy rains have caused flooding and flash floods in northwestern Wisconsin. The National Weather Service says the area has received 7-12” of rain. There will be a few showers tonight but the heavy rainfall has moved out. The counties with the most damage includes Douglas, Ashland, Bayfield, Price, Iron and Sawyer Counties.
Douglas County has declared a state of emergency. Numerous roads in the impacted counties, including sections of U.S. Highways 2, 35, 53, 63 and 137 are closed due to flooding. Law enforcement agencies tonight are advising no travel. They are reminding motorist that driving through water is dangerous and is putting first responders at risk.
Both Douglas and Bayfield counties are encouraging residents and businesses impacted by flooding to call 2-1-1 to report flood damage. Sawyer county and Lac Courte Oreilles Nation have reported several homes damaged by fallen trees as a result of the storms.
Several rivers including the Nemadji and Brule Rivers are running high and are flooding. Flood Watch and Flood Warnings continue.
Douglas County forestry trail system is shut down until inspections and repairs are completed due to water damage. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources report that many wardens are out in the field responding to requests for rescue and assistance. Evacuations were made at Copper Falls State Park last night. The decision was made to close access to Amnicon Falls State Park at 1315 today due to concerns regarding park guests on the walking bridges and roads.
The State Emergency Operations Center is elevated to Level 3 with Wisconsin Emergency Management, WI National Guard, WI State Patrol, WI Department of Natural Resources and the National Weather Service. Other state agencies are monitoring. WEM Regional Offices are on scene working with county emergency management agencies. They are coordinating additional traffic signs, barricades and barrels in anticipation of possible additional road closures.
