Appleton Flooding: Latest Updates and Developments
Rising waters continued to threaten communities in the Fox Valley despite some dams holding steady. Authorities ordered a large-scale evacuation in Shiocton as rainfall persisted.
Rain totals and forecast
The National Weather Service Green Bay reported 0.45 inches of rain in Appleton since 9:30 a.m. April 14. Meteorologist Jillian Goodin said another half inch is possible tonight. A break in the weather is expected until the afternoon of April 17. Widespread rain and storms are forecast to return late Friday afternoon.
A flood warning covers rivers, creeks, and streams in Outagamie, Brown, Shawano, and Waupaca counties. The warning remains in effect until 5 p.m. April 19. Appleton has received 6.88 inches of rain so far in April. Total precipitation for the year stands at 13.89 inches.
Shiocton evacuation and shelter
Village officials in Shiocton issued a large-scale evacuation order at 11:30 a.m. Residents were told to leave by 3 p.m. to avoid worsening flooding.
Visitors were urged to stay away. Authorities warned water conditions are active and potentially dangerous. An emergency shelter opened at the Community Center, 507 S. Maple St., in Black Creek.
State Highway 76 is closed from State 54 to the south end of Shiocton. Drivers should seek alternate routes.
Dams and river conditions
The Balsam Row Road Dam north of Shawano remained intact as of 8 a.m. Crews worked on-site to remove debris and improve flow. Shawano officials had warned around 5 p.m. April 14 that the dam faced risk of failure.
Residents living south of the river near the dam were advised to have evacuation plans ready. Waupaca County lifted a previous evacuation order at 5:30 p.m. April 14, allowing residents to return home. The Black Falls Dam was also holding, though fire departments stressed conditions can shift quickly with more rain.
Community response and sandbag efforts
- New London requested volunteers after premade sandbags ran out. Volunteers should park on Werner Allen and follow the path to the municipal garage at 1306 W. Wolf River Ave. Help was being accepted until 5:30 p.m.
- Manawa asked for volunteers at 6 a.m. to fill sandbags at the wastewater treatment plant, E4981 Swan Road. Helpers were advised to park on Main Street and walk to the site.
- Nichols residents were asked to report to the fire station at 9065 Krull Road to assist with sandbagging.
Recovery assistance
Menasha’s Department of Public Works will collect water-damaged items free of charge. Place items on the terrace between April 15 and April 17. For questions, call 920-967-3610.
For the most current information on Appleton flooding, follow local emergency updates and National Weather Service guidance. Filmogaz.com will continue to report on the latest updates and developments as conditions change.
