Full Notification

Notification on River Flow in Wisconsin Rapids

Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin – Thursday, April 18, 2019 3:45 p.m. CST

Wisconsin River flows through Wisconsin Rapids were at 56,100 cubic feet per second (cfs) at 3:00 today. Flows are predicted to peak at 61,000-65,000 cfs in the next 24-48 hours. This would be above flood stage.

Because of these increased flow rates, the City has implemented the following measures and safeguards:

City officials are actively monitoring flow forecasts and conditions.

Personal contact with City residents and businesses that are in potentially affected flood areas will occur should conditions warrant.

The following parks are CLOSED: Lyon, Legion, Veterans, Demitz, Mead Rapids View and Ben Hansen (including the bike trail), as well as the Boles Creek Boat landing.

At this time, all city streets are open. However, it is anticipated that the roundabout at Second Avenue South, 17th Avenue South, and Gaynor Avenue may be closed shortly. We are making every effort to keep it open but may be closed if we cannot control the water. Please drive very slowly through the roundabout.

Should conditions warrant street closures, please be prepared to take alternate routes and abide by the detours as recommended. Never drive in an area where there is standing or moving water.

Access to certain areas near the river is prohibited. Please heed any barricades and signs, and do not go in areas that are restricted.

These flow rates and projections are subject to change, so please watch for further information.

Information will be provided through local media outlets, Nixle (please sign up at www.nixle.com) and the City’s Facebook Page, and on the City’s website, www.wirapids.org.

United Way of South Wood and Adams Counties’ 2-1-1 information and referral program is available for residents to connect with community resources. 2-1-1 can be dialed from your phone or cell phone.

Further information regarding Wisconsin River flow rates and projections can be obtained from the NOAA Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service: http://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=grb&gage=wirw3&prob_type=stage&source=hydrograph

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For further information regarding this release, please contact:
Joe Terry
Director of Public Works
715-421-8255
[email protected]