NEW LONDON, WI- Officials warned Thursday that a dangerous and evolving flooding emergency continues across Waupaca County, with additional rain expected to worsen already critical conditions through the weekend.
During a press conference in New London, county and city leaders urged residents in low-lying and evacuation-designated areas to leave immediately as rivers rise, roads close and utilities face growing risks.
Waupaca County Emergency Management Director Zac Van Asten said the flooding remains a “serious hazard” and emphasized that conditions are still changing.
The flooding prompted both Waupaca County and Gov. Tony Evers to declare a state of emergency. Officials warned that saturated soil could lead to uprooted trees, downed power lines and potential outages in the coming days.
Rising water and worsening weather
Van Asten said more rain and possible severe weather forecast for Friday could quickly escalate the situation.
Officials are closely coordinating with the National Weather Service as river levels continue to climb.
- The Wolf River in New London measured about 11.1 feet early Thursday and is projected to crest near 11.6 feet Saturday, not including additional rainfall.
- The Little Wolf River in Royalton has reached 7.6 feet and may have crested, though incoming rain could reverse that trend.
- The Embarrass River reached 12.36 feet, surpassing its previous record of 12.1 feet.
Sandbagging continues across the county, and more sandbags have been ordered from the state.
“We’re working step by step, minute by minute,” Van Asten said. “Right now our focus is life safety.”
Evacuations urged in multiple communities
Officials strongly urged residents in flood-prone areas of New London, Waupaca County, Weyauwega, Manawa and Clintonville to move to higher ground.
“If you’re able to evacuate, evacuate,” Van Asten said. “It becomes harder for first responders to reach you as floodwaters rise.”
Emergency shelters remain open, with the American Red Cross now assisting local officials and preparing for a broader response if needed.
Roads closed, services disrupted in New London
New London Police Chief Josh Wilson said road closures remain a major concern in the city of New London, with barricades being pushed farther back as water spreads.
Major closures include:
- Shawano Street starting at Austin Court (north side)
- Beacon Avenue and all areas north of it (south side)
Officials urged residents not to drive around barricades.
Flooding has also disrupted services:
- Mail delivery has been suspended citywide.
- Garbage and recycling pickup is affected in flooded areas.
- An emergency public shelter is open at Washington Center Gym.
Sandbags are available for pickup at Patton Stadium in Hatten Park.
Natural gas service shutoffs underway
Utility crews from We Energies are disconnecting natural gas service to protect homes and businesses from hazardous leaks caused by flooding.
About 1,800 customers in New London and 400 in Shiocton will be affected.
Officials said disconnecting service now prevents dangerous gas buildup and long-term system damage. Crews will restore service once floodwaters recede and it is safe to do so.
Dams stressed but holding
Officials confirmed two dams experienced dangerous high water this week, including the Big Falls Dam and a dam in Marion. Both are now stable after emergency response efforts.
“We are in much better shape than we were Monday,” Chief Wilson said, while stressing that all dams remain under heavy monitoring.
Cleanup timeline uncertain
When asked how long recovery could take, officials said it is too early to estimate.
“We don’t know when this will end yet,” Van Asten said. “Right now, the priority is keeping the public safe.”
Officials urged residents to follow local government social media pages for updates and to prepare for rapidly changing conditions through the weekend.
Comments