Flood Watch Returns With up to 3.5 Inches of 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 noon Wednesday, and will continue until Friday at 7 a.m., according to Patch's media partners at WISN 12 Weather.  A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

Another area of 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 as localized flooding caused concerns last week. The additional rain may be coming as the ground is thawed, but is still saturated.

During the first round of heavy rains last week, Public Works Director Arlyn Johnson said crews were out clearing storm drains from water runoff. They also received several calls about blocked driveway culverts. 

Johnson said there was only one area in the Village - Grand Avenue between Woodlawn Drive and Forest Drive - where the storm sewer system surcharged and temporary warning signs were placed to provide advance notice to drivers.  The surcharge was estimated to be about 4- to 6-inches deep at the curb line.