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Floods ravage local communities

The banks of Tiger Creek running through Wittenberg were close to flooding into the pond at Pond Park the evening of April 13. (Miriam Nelson)

By
Kevin Passon, Editor-in-Chief

As if area communities aren’t already drenched with rain and worried about flooding, more severe weather is in the forecast.

The National Weather Service predicts a chance for severe thunderstorms and locally heavy rainfall south of a line from Wisconsin Rapids to Sturgeon Bay late this afternoon and evening (April 14). Large hail and strong winds will be the primary threats. Isolated tornadoes are also possible south of Highway 10.

Ongoing flooding will continue today due to heavy rainfall from yesterday, especially near rivers, streams and creeks.

Oconto County Sheriff Todd Skarban said the southern end of the county is suffering from severe flooding.

“We have experienced significant amounts of rain, which has caused flooding on the south end of the county,” he posted online. “Crews are out checking county and town bridges, culverts and roadways.”

He said drivers should stay clear of any washed out bridges or culverts.

“The high water levels are dangerous and have created unstable surface conditions under portion of the roads near culverts,” he said.

Drivers should avoid Jaworski Road south of South Chase Road as the bridge is completely washed out.

In Menominee County, the intersection of state Highway 47-55 and County Road VV East is closed.

All traffic is being rerouted to Blacksmith Road, according to the Menominee Tribal Communications Department. Follow posted detour signs and use caution while traveling in the area.

Residents are reminded to not drive on flooded roadways and to follow all barricades and road closure signs. Water levels can change quickly and may be deeper than they appear.

Flood warnings remain in effect for many parts of the area.

Additional thunderstorms are possible Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday night (April 15), and again Friday night into Saturday (April 17-18).

Elevated water levels and at least minor flooding will continue along many rivers through the week.

passon@newmedia-wi.com