Emergency Operations Center activated in Kenosha County after storms, numerous roads closed



KENOSHA COUNTY --  The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 12th activated the Kenosha County Emergency Operations Center due to the heavy rainfall and severe flooding.

Road conditions were reported as poor for almost all roads within Kenosha County in at least one or more locations. A chunk of Highway K, just north of Paddock Lake was washed away due to the water. A large part of the pavement was torn up all the way across both lanes.

Sinkhole on Highway K north of Paddock Lake in Kenosha County due to flooding



Sinkhole on Highway K north of Paddock Lake in Kenosha County due to flooding



The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department, Kenosha County Highway Department and area fire and rescue agencies were working to assist the citizens of Kenosha with the water-related issues.

The sheriff’s department had extra personnel handling calls for assistance and service.

There were reports of 7.75 inches of rainfall in Kenosha County at the New Munster Weather Rain Station.

The National Weather Service has predicted that the Fox River will crest Thursday, July 13th at 15 to 16 feet. This will exceed the previous high level set in 2008.

All Kenosha County residents or businesses that have sustained damage should report that damage to the Kenosha County Emergency Management Flood Hotline at 262-605-7924.  Leave a message there in regards to the damage sustained.  Damage can also be reported at the email address of disaster@kenoshacounty.org.

Kenosha County Executive Jim Kreuser reiterated how important it is for people, businesses and municipalities to report flood damage to Emergency Management to optimize the available state and federal resources.

Kreuser was also concerned that people remain aware of safety conditions around them, their friends and family.

“If you’re unsafe or feel unsafe and need to get out, call a friend or call law enforcement,” Kreuser said. “Make sure you check on elderly and disabled friends and family. Call them – don’t drive there until it’s safe to travel.”



Officials said due to anticipated flooding, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) will implement a closure Wednesday evening along WIS 50 at the Fox River in New Munster in Kenosha County. The closure is to be in place by 6:00 p.m. Wednesday and may be in effect throughout the weekend of July 14th, or until water levels dissipate.

With high water levels on adjacent roadways, and active construction along WIS 142 near Burlington, it is suggested that motorists follow alternate routes along WIS 83, WIS 11 and WIS 75 to get around the closure.

As always, motorists are advised to drive with caution when traveling in impacted areas and are reminded to not drive through standing or flowing water. For up to date closures and detour information visit https://511wi.gov or follow @511WI on Twitter.