Green Bay, Wisconsin – A Flood Watch remains in effect across much of central and northeast Wisconsin through Friday morning, Jan. 9, as rain falling on an existing snowpack increases the risk of flooding.
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, flooding caused by rain and accelerated snowmelt is possible across large portions of the region. A deep, water-laden snowpack may melt rapidly as temperatures rise, allowing runoff to move quickly into rivers, streams, and low-lying areas.
The Flood Watch includes areas of central Wisconsin, such as Marathon, Portage, Wood, and Waushara counties; east central Wisconsin, including Calumet and Winnebago counties; north central Wisconsin, including Langlade County; and northeast Wisconsin, including Brown, Door, Menominee, Shawano, Outagamie, Waupaca, northern and southern Oconto County, and southern Marinette County.
Cities within the watch area include Green Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, Neenah, Menasha, Wausau, Stevens Point, Wisconsin Rapids, Antigo, Shawano, Clintonville, Oconto, Sturgeon Bay, Peshtigo, and Crivitz.
Forecasters warn that excessive runoff may result in minor flooding of low-lying, poor-drainage, and urban areas, especially where storm drains and ditches remain clogged with ice and snow. Minor flooding is also possible along rivers, creeks, and streams, with an added risk of ice jams.
Rain may mix with snow at times across central and northern Wisconsin, which could affect how much melting occurs. Even so, water levels on some rivers may rise quickly and approach critical thresholds.
Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to monitor conditions closely and be prepared to act if Flood Warnings are issued. Motorists should use caution near water-covered roads and avoid driving through flooded areas.
