Green Bay, Wisconsin – Drivers along U.S. 41 and Highway 29 should prepare for soaking rain beginning Friday afternoon, with up to 1 inch of rainfall that could trigger localized flooding and rising rivers through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, above-normal temperatures will continue through the end of the week, helping fuel widespread rain Friday into Friday night. Rainfall totals between one-half and one inch are expected across much of northeast Wisconsin, with scattered thunderstorms possible Friday afternoon and evening, especially south of Highway 29.
Communities including Appleton, Oshkosh and Fond du Lac may see brief downpours during peak travel hours Friday, reducing visibility on I-41 and creating ponding on low-lying roads. Farther north toward Wausau and Rhinelander, rain may mix with wet snow late Friday night into early Saturday, particularly on elevated surfaces.
The combination of mild temperatures and steady rainfall raises concern for ice jams along area rivers, including stretches of the Fox and Wolf rivers. Ice movement could lead to rapid water rises and minor flooding near riverbanks and adjacent roadways.
Motorists should slow down on water-covered pavement and avoid driving around barricades near flooded areas. Residents living near rivers should monitor water levels closely and have a plan to move belongings if water begins to rise.
Rain will taper from west to east early Saturday, but river impacts could linger into the weekend. Additional advisories may be issued if ice jams develop or rainfall totals exceed projections.
