La Crosse, Wis. – Residents across western Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa should prepare for a soaking day as multiple rounds of rain move through the Upper Mississippi Valley, bringing the potential for urban flooding, rising rivers and isolated flash flooding. The heaviest rain is expected through 3 p.m. Friday, although showers will continue into the evening and overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, locations along and south of Interstate 90 face the highest risk for heavy rainfall. Most communities can expect 1 to 3 inches of rain, while a few areas in northeast Iowa, southeast Minnesota and southwest Wisconsin could receive more than 4 inches, although forecasters estimate only about a 10% to 30% chance of those higher totals.
Cities including La Crosse, Rochester, Winona, Decorah, Prairie du Chien, Richland Center, Austin and Charles City could experience periods of torrential rainfall that overwhelm storm drains and flood low-lying roads. Rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches are possible across parts of northeast Iowa and southwest Wisconsin, while areas farther north, including Black River Falls, Wisconsin Rapids, Tomah and Wabasha, are generally expected to receive 0.5 to 1.5 inches.
The primary concerns include urban street flooding, rapidly rising rivers and streams, and localized flash flooding where the heaviest downpours persist. Motorists should expect reduced visibility during heavy rain and never drive across flooded roadways, as water depth and road damage may not be immediately apparent.
Forecast rainfall amounts may still shift depending on where the most persistent bands of rain develop, so residents should closely monitor updated forecasts throughout the day. Additional Flood Advisories, Flash Flood Warnings or other alerts could be issued if rainfall intensifies or flooding develops.
