Wednesday's Heavy Rains

August 22, 2007
J. McLellan 267-2542 mclellan@co.dane.wi.us
Emergency Management

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 8/22/07 Issuing Department: Emergency Management For more information contact: J. McLellan, Dept. of Emergency Management 608/267-2542 Wednesday’s Rains Reference #082207-#2 Available at: www.co.dane.wi.us Wednesday’s Heavy Rains Heavy rains have dropped up to 2 ½ inches of rain across Dane County. More rain is predicted tonight. With the ground saturated from past storms, further rain is expected to run off rather than be absorbed. Flooding conditions can be expected. Problems reported this afternoon include street flooding, downed power lines and trees, and blocked culverts. Many of the areas affected by heavy rains earlier this week can expect to be impacted with more heavy rain. Residents are warned to take precautions when outside. With the combination of saturated soils, existing standing water, and more rain expected, there is an increased chance of flash flooding. Weather conditions are rapidly changing and can create severe flooding in just a matter of minutes. More rain, even in smaller amounts than last weekend, can have a greater impact due to the current saturated conditions. Persons are STRONGLY encouraged to stay out of flood waters, both standing and flowing. Flood waters contain unknown debris and distort road conditions that could cause serious injury. DO NOT LET CHILDREN PLAY IN FLOOD WATERS! Drivers should SLOW DOWN. Trees, debris, and power lines have already been reported in roadways. At night, these road hazards are even more dangerous. Dane County Emergency Management and the Dane County Sheriff’s Office are monitoring conditions across the county and working with local governments to support local response as needs warrant. Persons should report storm damage to their local municipality. When reporting, include the date, extent of damage, and estimated cost of repair. For City of Madison residents needing sand and sandbags, they will be available after 10:00 pm tonight at : Hoboken Lift Station – 1800 Waunona Way Spring Harbor Park – 5218 Lake Mendota Dr. Warner Park Beach – 1201 Woodward Dr. Tenney Park Beach – 1330 Sherman Ave. To contact the City of Madison Engineering Division, call 266-4430 during regular business hours or 266-4665 after hours. ###