Flood Warning Issued for Millions: 'Turn Around, Don't Drown'
Flood warnings are in effect according to the National Weather Service, from the Midwest to the Northeast this Easter weekend as days of heavy rain have pushed rivers above flood stage across New York, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa and Michigan. Some warnings don't expire until Thursday or Friday. Here's what to know.
Flood Warning Issued Across Wisconsin as Baraboo River Surges
Wisconsin is the hardest-hit state this weekend. The Baraboo River at Reedsburg is forecast to crest at 16.6 feet just after midnight Sunday night — matching a 2016 record — with moderate flooding covering neighborhoods near West Main Street and submerging South Park entirely. Downstream near Baraboo, the river is forecast to rise further to 18.1 feet Tuesday afternoon, with warnings through Wednesday. The Fox River near New Munster is already at first-floor levels of some homes along Riverside Drive, with that warning running through Thursday.
Flood Warning Issued in Indiana and Ohio as Multiple Rivers Overflow
Northern Indiana and northwest Ohio are under the most widespread warnings of any region, with more than a dozen rivers above or approaching flood stage. The Saint Joseph River near Newville is forecast to crest at 15.2 feet Sunday evening with moderate flooding. The Tippecanoe River is under a moderate flood warning through Wednesday. In Ohio, Killbuck Creek near Killbuck has already flooded private property on Water Street and rendered several roads impassable through Thursday morning.
Flood Warning Issued Across New York, Iowa and Michigan
In western New York, Irondequoit Creek is pushing above flood stage in Monroe County through Monday morning, with Ellison Park facing extensive flooding. Cayuga Lake at Ithaca remains above flood stage until further notice. In Iowa, the Cedar River at Cedar Falls is forecast to crest at 90.8 feet Monday evening, with a warning through Wednesday. In Michigan, the Saint Joseph River at Three Rivers is forecast to crest Monday afternoon with apartment and condo flooding expected along the river — that warning runs through next Saturday.
@hayleyschu mind you that is the top of someone’s fence. #flood #michigan #boat
♬ Tuesday's Gone - Lynyrd Skynyrd
Flash Flood Warning vs. Flood Warning: What the Different NWS Alerts Mean
Flash Flood Warning: Take Immediate Action. A flash flood is imminent or occurring. Move to high ground now — don't wait.
Flood Warning: Take Action. Flooding is imminent or already happening in the warned area.
Flood Watch: Be Prepared. Conditions are favorable for flooding but it hasn't occurred yet.
Flood Advisory: Be Aware. Flooding won't reach warning levels but could cause inconvenience and, without caution, risk to life or property.
Flood Damage Restoration: What To Do When Floodwater Reaches Your Home
Once floodwater recedes and it's safe to return, act fast. Mold can begin developing within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure.
Document the Damage First. Photograph and video everything before touching anything — essential for insurance claims.
Call Your Insurance Provider. Most homeowner policies don't cover flooding. A separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is required. Call regardless — your provider will direct next steps.
Remove Water and Dry Thoroughly. Get standing water out as fast as possible using pumps or professional extraction. Follow with industrial fans and dehumidifiers. Moisture in walls and flooring is where mold starts.
Hire a Certified Flood Damage Restoration Company. Look for IICRC-certified contractors. Be cautious of unsolicited door-to-door contractors after disasters — post-flood fraud is common. Always get a written estimate first.
For real-time conditions visit weather.gov/safety/flood.