Governor Jim Doyle remains optimistic that the situation will improve, following widespread flooding across southern Wisconsin.
The Governor says drier weather has helped to get the situation more under control. He says many rivers seem to have crested, and in some cases are decreasing. There's also hope that clear skies will hold and allow water levels to fall.
However, Governor Doyle warns that some problem areas remain. His primary concern at this time is reports across the state that some dams may be failing. Doyle says state officials have been dispatched to check out those situations and assess what needs to be done to protect the areas around them.
National Guard troops and state officials continue to respond to the flooding in the 30 counties where the Governor declared a state of emergency. Doyle says their focus is also on keeping the floods from spreading if more rain falls, especially with more rain in the forecast for the coming weekend.
The Governor is also keeping his options open for when recovery efforts can begin. FEMA officials are due in Wisconsin Wednesday to assess the flood damage, and to determine if Wisconsin qualifies for federal disaster aid.
