Record year for winter precipitation
By Robert Cloud
Waupaca County Emergency Management is preparing area residents for what may be serious flooding this spring.
The National Weather Service is predicting an above average risk for spring flooding.
Models based on current and predicted weather conditions project a 70% chance that the Wolf River at New London will reach more than 10 feet between Feb. 17 and May 17.
“2019 was the wettest year on record,” according to Andrew Carlin, director of Emergency Management. “We’re entering spring with high moisture in the soil and not a lot of places for the water to go.”
Carlin noted the Wolf River is already at 5.7 feet, which is a couple of feet higher than usual.
Last year, the Wolf River rose from 4.38 feet on March 13 to 10 feet on March 22.
“We were in flood stage in January this year,” Carlin said.
Heavy rains and rapid snowmelt may also contribute to higher than normal water levels this spring.
He encouraged residents to purchase flood insurance to protect themselves from property losses.
“Twenty percent of damage claims for flooding come from low-risk areas,” Carlin said, noting basements and garages can flood even if the property is not near a river.
Carlin said there is a 30-day waiting period for flood insurance, so now is the time to buy it before spring flooding begins.
He said flood insurance is provided through the federal government and most insurance agents can help their clients obtain it.
“Prepare your house. Get your stuff out of the basement,” Carlin said.
Training
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will offer free one-hour training sessions in how to effectively fill and place sandbags.
The first class is set for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, at the New London City Garage, 1306 W. Wolf River Ave., New London.
The second class will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, at the parking lot behind Fremont Village Hall, 317 Wolf River Drive, Fremont.
“These classes are open to anybody, regardless of where they live,” Carlin said.
The National Weather Service will offer weather spotter training from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, March 19, in lower level room LL0042 at the Waupaca County Courthouse, 811 Harding St., Waupaca.
The program is free and no registration is required.
“We’re planning for the worst, but hoping for the best,” Carlin said.