For Release: 06/11/2015
Rainfall Forecast Calls for Heightened Safety Around Fast-moving Rivers, Especially Near Dams
Green Bay and Necedah, WI – The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting
substantial rain across much of central and southern Wisconsin. A flash flood watch has been
issued by the service for the area from late this afternoon through much of Friday.
Current river forecasts in the Wisconsin Public Service area aren't a cause for alarm
because the heavy rain is taking a more southerly path into far southern Wisconsin. However, future
NWS forecasts include the chance of several rounds of heavy rainfall in the week ahead. The
accumulating rain and potentially saturated ground can combine to cause a runoff into creeks and
streams, with the water eventually making its way into the larger rivers in our area. The Wisconsin
River, in particular, has a large watershed which is where most of the runoff will accumulate. That
means high water, very fast-moving currents and greater discharges from dams along the river.
In addition, today's rain could end up taking a more northerly track, hastening the runoff
effects on rivers in our area.
After repeated heavy rain, even areas that are not prone to flooding or do not receive much rainfall
can be affected as the accumulated water moves downstream, often taking several days before river
flows return to normal.
The risk of continued heavy bouts of rainfall heightens the danger above and below dams,
reservoirs, and on rivers. The dangers persist long after the rain stops, so caution should be
exercised whenever there is heavy rainfall.
Wisconsin Public Service and Wisconsin River Power Company operate many dams, primarily
along the Wisconsin and Peshtigo Rivers. The companies are urging people to exercise extreme
caution around dams, rivers and reservoirs in the coming week. Water levels are likely to fluctuate,
so those who live on reservoirs or downstream from dams should have a plan if dangerous weather
occurs and make sure they have an "escape route."
For More Information, Contact:
- Media Hotline 800-977-2250