Wautoma, Wisconsin, was hit by severe thunderstorms on Wednesday that led to significant flash flooding in the area. The local police reported that the city received approximately 4.5 inches of rain in just an hour and a half, causing extensive street flooding.
As a result of the rapid rainfall, Wautoma Police had to close State Highways 21 and 73 around 4:20 p.m. due to safety concerns. Numerous vehicles became stranded in the flood, some submerged up to the rooftops. Parts of the highway were washed out, highlighting the intensity of the weather event. Fortunately, by 5:00 p.m., the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Traffic Management Center was informed by local police that the roads had reopened.
Wautoma Fire Chief Grenier described this flooding as the worst he has witnessed since 2001. The response from local agencies, including Wautoma Fire, Public Works, and the Wisconsin State Patrol, was commendable. They worked diligently to manage traffic and clear the roadways during the emergency.
This incident underscores the increasing severity of weather events and the importance of community preparedness and response efforts. While communities like Wautoma face challenges from such extreme weather, the coordinated response efforts highlight the resilience and solidarity found in local partnerships.