Flood Watch Returns With More Rain Expected

Apparently the memo hasn't gotten to Mother Nature to turn off the tap, as Wisconsin emerged from its drought only to face flooding last week and again this week.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch that goes into effect at noon Wednesday, and will continue until 7 a.m. Friday, according to Patch's media partners at WISN.

Residents should monitor forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action.

Moderate to heavy rain is moving into the southern half of Wisconsin, adding as much as 2.5 to 3.5 inches of rain to already swollen streams and rivers. Some higher totals are possible.

Specifically, officials are watching the Rock, Fox and Milwaukee rivers, where possible flooding caused concern last week. The additional rain may be coming as the ground is thawed, but is still saturated.

Oak Creek avoided major flooding problems last week, which Mayor Steve Scaffidi credited to the engineering department's efforts to better handle excessive rains.

The city has many low-lying areas that frequently flood, but Oak Creek had significantly fewer road closures last week, Scaffidi said.

But the work to alleviate flooding problems is still ongoing, he said. Problems were reported last week on Oakwood Road, Weatherly Drive and other areas.