As a preventative measure during the current flooding, the Columbia County Highway Department will place sandbags along both directions of I-39 at the WIS 33 interchange, west of Portage, in Columbia County. Motorists should be alert for lane restrictions on I-39 northbound and southbound at the WIS 33 interchange to provide space as crews place sandbags along the highway.
Motorists are advised:
- As crews respond to storm damage and cleanup efforts, motorists are urged to move over or slow down for responder vehicles with flashing lights and watch out for crews working alongside roadways.
- Never drive into standing water. It only takes a foot of rushing water to sweep away or float most cars and just two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.
- Just six inches of floodwater will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling.
- If you see barriers, turn around and find another route. Roads could be washed out under the water.
Visit 511wi.gov to view road closures impacted by flooding, live video from traffic cameras and weather alerts across the state.
