Saint Croix Falls, Wisconsin: Flood and Safety Alerts

Wisconsin Under Air Quality Advisory As Canadian Wildfire Smoke Lingers

August 3, 2024

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Has Issued An Air Quality Advisory Affecting All Counties Across The State.Residents Should Prepare For Potential Health Impacts From Poor Air Quality.

what Is Happening? The Air Quality Index (AQI) For PM2.5 Is Predicted To Reach Levels Considered Unhealthy For Sensitive Groups To Unhealthy. This Is Primarily Due To Ongoing Smoke From Canadian Wildfires.

Which Areas Are Affected? Adams, Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Brown, Buffalo, Burnett, Calumet, Chippewa, Clark, Columbia, Crawford, Dane, Dodge, Door, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Florence, Fond du Lac, Forest, Grant, Green, Green Lake, iowa, Iron, Jackson, jefferson, Juneau, kenosha, Kewaunee, La Crosse, Lafayette, Langlade, Lincoln, Manitowoc, marathon, Marinette, Marquette, Menominee, Milwaukee, Monroe, Oconto, Oneida, Outagamie, Ozaukee, pepin, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Racine, Richland, Rock, Rusk, Sauk, Sawyer, Shawano, Sheboygan, St. croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Vernon, Vilas, Walworth, Washburn, Washington, Waukesha, waupaca, Waushara, Winnebago, And Wood Counties Are All Included.

When Will Conditions Improve? The advisory Is Currently In Effect until Noon On Monday, August 4.Conditions Will Be Reevaluated Daily, With Potential Updates To The Forecast And Advisories.

Who Is Most At Risk? Sensitive Groups,Including Individuals With Asthma Or Heart Disease,Should Take extra Precautions. Consider Rescheduling Outdoor Activities Or Moving them Indoors. Those Experiencing Symptoms Should Seek Shelter Promptly.

What Precautions should You Take? everyone Should Limit The Duration And Intensity Of outdoor Activities. If You Experience Symptoms Such As Shortness of Breath Or Fatigue, Go Indoors. People With Asthma Should Have Speedy-Relief Medication Readily Available And Follow Their Asthma Action Plan.

Where Can You Find More Information? For Detailed Information On Current Air Quality Conditions, please Visit The Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources Air Quality Website: https://airquality.wi.gov.

Disclaimer: This Information Is For General Knowledge And Informational Purposes Only, And Does not Constitute Medical Advice. It Is Essential To Consult With A Qualified Healthcare professional For Any Health Concerns or Before Making Any Decisions Related To Your Health Or Treatment.

What Are Your Thoughts? Have You been Affected By The Wildfire Smoke? share Your Experiences and Concerns In The Comments Below.

What discounts on flood insurance premiums are available to Saint Croix Falls residents due to the Community Rating System (CRS)?

Understanding Flood Risks in Saint Croix falls

Saint Croix Falls, Wisconsin, nestled along the st. Croix River, is a stunning area but susceptible to flooding, particularly during spring snowmelt and periods of heavy rainfall. Understanding the specific flood risks facing our community is the frist step towards staying safe. Key factors contributing to flood potential include:

River Proximity: The St.Croix River’s natural fluctuations and potential for overflow directly impact low-lying areas.

Snowmelt: Rapid snowmelt in the spring can overwhelm drainage systems and cause river levels to rise quickly.

heavy Rainfall: Intense rainfall events can lead to flash flooding,even if the river isn’t instantly affected.

Topography: The area’s terrain can channel water towards specific locations, increasing localized flooding.

Current Flood Alerts & Monitoring Systems

Staying informed about current conditions is crucial. Here’s how to access vital information:

Polk County Emergency Management: Regularly check the Polk County Emergency Management website (https://www.co.polk.wi.us/emergency-management) for official alerts, evacuation orders, and safety updates.

National Weather Service (NWS): The NWS provides real-time river levels, flood forecasts, and weather warnings. Access their information at https://www.weather.gov/. Specifically, monitor the St. Croix River levels near Saint Croix Falls.

Polk County Alerts: Sign up for polk County’s emergency alert system to receive notifications directly to your phone or email. (https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/WIPOLK/subscriber/new)

Local News & Radio: Tune into local news channels and radio stations (e.g., KFAI, local CBS/NBC affiliates) for up-to-date information during severe weather events.

Safety Procedures During a Flood Watch

A Flood Watch means conditions are favorable for flooding. Take thes precautions:

1. monitor Conditions: Stay tuned to weather reports and official alerts.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a battery-powered radio.
3. Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure anything that could be swept away by floodwaters (patio furniture, trash cans, etc.).
4. Clear drains & Gutters: Ensure drainage systems are clear to handle potential runoff.
5. Know Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with designated evacuation routes in Saint Croix Falls.

Safety Procedures During a Flood Warning

A Flood Warning means flooding is happening or is imminent. Immediate action is required:

1. Evacuate if Ordered: If an evacuation order is issued, leave immediately. Follow designated evacuation routes.
2. Move to Higher Ground: If you are not ordered to evacuate, move to the highest level of your home.
3. Turn Off Utilities: If safe to do so,turn off gas,electricity,and water.
4. Avoid Floodwaters: Never drive or walk through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and two feet can sweep away a vehicle.
5. Report Emergencies: Call 911 to report life-threatening situations.

Flood Insurance Information

Standard homeowner’s insurance typically does not cover flood damage. Consider these options:

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners in participating communities. Learn more at https://www.floodsmart.gov/.

Private Flood Insurance: Several private insurance companies also offer flood insurance policies.

* Community Rating System (CRS): Saint Croix Falls participates in the CRS, which may offer discounts on flood insurance premiums. Check with