Wisconsin River Flood Update – April 16, 2026: 4:30PM
4/16/2026
LATEST UPDATES
- As of this update, Columbia County Emergency Management has not issued a press release for today. Please check Emergency Management’s website for the latest updates as they become available.
- The Wisconsin River level is 19.87 feet and rising.
- The National Weather Service is forecasting the Wisconsin River could reach a major flood stage of approximately 21.0 feet in the morning hours of Friday, April 17. This remains a forecasted estimate and may change based on evolving conditions.
- All members of the public are advised to refrain from boating, swimming, or otherwise entering the Wisconsin River due to increased water levels, faster currents, and the presence of debris beneath the surface.
ROAD CLOSURES UPDATES
The following streets within and near the City of Portage will be closed due to rising water. A map City road closures available here.
- Summit Street – River Street to Carroll Street
- Carroll Street – Summit Street to Prospect Avenue
- Conant Street – Prospect Avenue to Sunset Street
- Prospect Avenue – Carroll Street to 500’ east
- Pleasant Street – Conant Street to 500’ east
- Levee Road west of Highway 33
Information on additional road closures in Columbia County is available here.
GENERAL INFORMATION & RESOURCES
Sand and sandbags are available to the public. Residents are asked to bring a shovel and an appropriate vehicle or trailer for transport. Within the City of Portage, materials are available at the sand shed at the old Public Works Garage (616 Washington Street), which can be accessed from both Morgan Street and the old Garage driveway. A second location is available through Columbia County at the Columbia County Highway Shop (338 W Old Highway 16, Wyocena). A photo of the City’s sand shed is included below for reference.
Additional resources:
- Columbia County Press Release Website for Updates
- National Weather Service WI River Gauge
- Columbia County Flood Fight Handbook
- WI Department of Health Services Information
- WI Department of Natural Resources Coping with Flooding Information
In the event of an emergency, residents are advised to call 911.
If residents need a sump pump for their home, please contact Columbia County Emergency Management at (608) 742-9890 for information on available resources.
City staff are actively monitoring weather conditions and river levels and are prepared to respond as needed. Updates as necessary will be shared on the City’s website and social media channels as conditions evolve.