La Crosse, Wis. – Rising river levels across the Upper Midwest are triggering a broad flood watch through early next week, with parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa under threat of minor to moderate flooding starting late Thursday night.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, the Kickapoo River, Black River, Cedar River, and several others are expected to reach or exceed flood stage between Friday and Sunday. Locations at risk include Charles City, Iowa; Austin, Minn.; and multiple towns along Wisconsin’s Kickapoo River, including Readstown, Gays Mills, and Soldiers Grove.
In Gays Mills, water may begin covering Sand Hill Road and flood-prone areas like Robb Park as early as Friday morning. The Cedar River near Charles City could reach 12 feet by midday Friday, inundating Leland Avenue and Park Drive. In Jackson County, the Black River may overflow rural roads near the La Crosse County line by Friday evening.
Residents near affected rivers should secure belongings, avoid low-lying roads, and prepare for possible evacuations. Charge electronic devices and stay informed through local alerts.
Warnings remain in effect through at least Monday morning, with additional advisories likely if rainfall continues.
