Big Falls Dam at Risk of Failure: Evacuations Ordered in Wisconsin
WAUPACA COUNTY, Wis. – Residents along the Wolf River in Wisconsin are being urgently evacuated as the Big Falls and Marion dams are at significant risk of failure. The Weyauwega Area Fire Department initiated evacuations due to the rapidly rising water levels of the Wolf River. This situation poses an immediate threat to downstream communities, including Clintonville.
Immediate Evacuation Orders & Safety Precautions
Authorities are urging residents in the threatened areas to evacuate without delay. If you are being asked to evacuate, please remember to bring essential items, including:
- Wallets and purses
- Medications
- Mobile phones and chargers
- Pets
For those without a safe place to go, the Weyauwega City Hall community center on Main St. is open as a shelter. Additional shelter is being established at Clintonville High School.
Dam Status & Potential Impact
Waupaca County Emergency Management reports that water is currently flowing around the embankment of the Big Falls Dam. While the dam hasn’t breached, it is unable to contain the increasing volume of water behind it. A failure of either the Big Falls or Marion dams would place Clintonville directly in the path of the resulting floodwaters.
The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for the area until 5 p.m. local time. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and heed all warnings from local authorities.
Resources & Assistance Available
Clintonville residents can access sandbags and sand at the Clintonville Library parking lot and the Embarrass Volunteer Fire Department. The Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office strongly recommends signing up for RAVE emergency notifications through the Waupaca County website to receive timely updates.
The Wolf River is not expected to crest until Saturday, meaning the risk of flooding will persist for the foreseeable future. Continued monitoring of the situation and adherence to evacuation orders are crucial.
Stay tuned to WBAY for further updates on this developing situation. WBAY News
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