Shullsburg, WI – Floodwaters are already rising across southern Lafayette County this afternoon, with roads and low-lying areas impacted as heavy thunderstorms continue dumping rain at dangerous rates.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, a Flash Flood Warning remains in effect until 6:30 p.m. Friday after radar detected storms producing 1.5 to 2 inches of rain, with an additional 0.5 to 1 inch possible. Rainfall rates are reaching up to 1.5 inches per hour, overwhelming drainage systems and triggering rapid runoff.
Communities including Shullsburg, Benton, Gratiot, and New Diggings are seeing the greatest impact. Water is quickly collecting on rural roads, underpasses, and smaller highways, especially in low-lying and hilly terrain where runoff accelerates. Local emergency officials warn that smaller creeks and streams may overflow with little notice.
Drivers face the highest risk. Even shallow water can stall vehicles or sweep them off roadways. Officials urge residents to avoid travel unless necessary and never attempt to cross flooded roads. Many of the region’s low-water crossings are հատկապես vulnerable during intense rainfall.
Storm activity is expected to continue through early evening, and additional warnings could be issued if rainfall persists or intensifies.
