Highway W in Saukville shut down due to high water after heavy rains

SAUKVILLE (WITI) -- Quickly rising waters are causing concern, especially for those living near the Milwaukee River. In Saukville, it's not just the fact that the water is rising that's causing concern -- it's the speed at which it's happening.

Residents living near the river say the water is quickly invading their yards and the surface of the river is getting close to nearby bridges.

“I was kind of surprised when I looked out and it was daylight and I saw all that water and birds swimming around in my backyard,” said Jacki VanKammen who lives right next door to the back waters of the Milwaukee River. “It’s all over in the wetlands and behind my house, creeping up into my backyard.”

Homeowners aren't the only ones affected. Many drivers had to take a detour on Monday, April 14th -- when Highway W closed due to high standing water.

Water flowed rapidly over the road, in some areas getting as deep as three feet or more.

Tow truck drivers warn people to pay attention to the "road closed" signs, especially because of some added challenges caused by the cold weather.

“The water is about 37 degrees and therefore hypothermia can set in pretty quick and unfortunately we can't get out there real quick. We have to wait for the fire department because we're not dressed for hypothermia-type situations, so before we can even hook up to the car we have to wait for the fire department to get out -- so by the time you get out you're going to be pretty cold,” explained Paul Krauska with Eddie's Auto Service in Saukville.

The police department is reminding drivers not to go around "road closed" signs -- or you could be issued a ticket.