Wisconsin River water levels could lead to flooding in low lying areas

Columbia County Emergency Management crews are monitoring the water level of the Wisconsin River for potential flooding concerns over the next couple of days, authorities said.

Officials expect the Wisconsin River to reach 14.9 feet in Portage by Friday, which is above the action stage of 12.7 feet, but below the flood stage of 17 feet, according to a release.

“With this water level, we will have low lying areas flooding along the Wisconsin River,” officials said in the release. “Many of the islands on the Wisconsin River in Columbia County that accommodate campers on them may also be underwater.”

According to the release, roads in the lower areas of Blackhawk Park are expected to flood.

Officials said drivers who encounter flooded roads should turn around and not try to drive through the water.

“People who live in low-lying areas along the Wisconsin River are encouraged to take appropriate actions and to monitor the river levels for any change,” the release said.

Columbia County Emergency Management crews will be monitoring the river forecasts from the National Weather Service and will update the public as changes are reported, officials said.