MADISON – (RealEstateRama) — A second storm that hit northwestern Wisconsin early Thursday morning blew down trees throughout the area, but did not cause any additional closures to state parks or forests in the region.
Heavy storm damage was reported in Ashland County, which is still recovering from a torrential rain storm that hit the region the night of July 11-12. Some areas received 8 to 10 inches of rain in that storm, causing flooding and major road washouts. Saturated soil likely contributed to the large number of trees blown down in the most recent storm that had winds reported at up to 75 miles per hour.
A number sections of state trails remain closed from last week’s rain and high waters on the St. Croix and Mississippi River continue to have some campgrounds and other facilities closed at Governor Knowles State Forest and Merrick and Interstate state parks. Most other northern properties such as the Flambeau River, Northern Highland-American Legion and Peshtigo River state forests, and Amnicon, Big Bay, Pattison and Copper Falls state parks are open.
Travel to destinations may take longer due to numerous road closures. People traveling to the area should check the Wisconsin Department of Transportationwww.511wi.gov website for details.
People can find out more information about Department of Natural Resources properties affected by flooding in northwestern Wisconsin through an updated “current conditions” page of the DNR website.
To find a park, forest or trail property search the DNR website for keywords “find a park.”
With the hot weather in the forecast, many park visitors are expected to seek relief at beaches and on rivers, but state health officials are cautioning people to play it safe if they plan to go swimming, canoeing, boating or fishing after heavy rain and flooding. Check with local health authorities on water quality conditions and get updates on Great Lakes beach water quality and more than 100 inland beaches before you go. Visit Wisconsin Beach Health [exit DNR] for more information.
Contact(s): Jim Dick, DNR spokesperson, 608-267-2773 or Paul Holtan, state parks public affairs, 608-267-7517
