Flooding has washed out roads across northern Wisconsin (Photo: WI Emergency Management)
State and local officials are starting to get a better handle on damage caused by flooding this week in northern Wisconsin. The water is receding, allowing crews to get a closer look at roads and bridges that were damaged or washed out when heavy rains caused flash flooding across the northwestern corner of the state.
Lori Getter with Wisconsin Emergency Management says many road closures remain in place, although some routes are starting to open again. “The counties have been working hard, along with state engineers and the DOT to determine how much damage there is.”
While it remains unclear just how much repairs will cost, Getter says it will likely be in the millions of dollars. The timeline for getting roads reopened could take up to several weeks as well, after some routes had sections completely washed away by floodwaters.
While some roads are closed, the state is still encouraging anyone with vacation plans in the region to consider keeping them in place. Getter says you just need to check with your destination or the state’s 511 website to make sure the route is open or to help locate detours.