Racine is on flood watch as the Root River swells, pushing water levels high enough that the city has shut down part of Domanik Drive in Lincoln Park and started sending out sandbags. Officials say neighborhoods along the river are at risk and are urging residents to steer clear of low-lying areas and stay out of standing water while crews keep a close eye on conditions.
City crews prepare and distribute sandbags
According to the City of Racine Department of Public Works, crews are tracking river gauges, setting up pumps and hauling sandbags to selected public and private properties along the river. The department says workers are on standby to react quickly if water rises further and is reminding residents to respect barricades and posted signs. More road closures are on the table if the situation worsens.
Forecasts and local river gauges
The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and warnings across parts of southeast Wisconsin after recent heavy rain. Its river-forecast tools show both the Root River and the Root River Canal running at elevated stages. Racine County maintains an AHPS gauge page for the Root River at Racine and the Root River Canal at Raymond so residents can keep tabs on live water levels. Those official forecasts remain the go-to source for projected crests and timing.
Where to avoid and local landmarks
The city reports that Domanik Drive is closed in the Lincoln Park area between the Root River Steelhead Facility and the United Way building. The Wisconsin DNR lists the steelhead facility at 2200 Domanik Drive in Lincoln Park. People who live or work near the river are being told to move vehicles and valuables to higher ground and to follow official detours. If you come across a flooded road, turn around; do not drive through standing water.
Staying informed and what to do next
Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on local alerts and county gauge pages for real-time updates, and to follow directions from emergency responders and public works crews. For river stages and watches, consult the Racine County river levels page along with information from the National Weather Service for projected crests and guidance. For immediate emergencies, call 911. Non-emergency questions about sandbagging or closures should go through city public works channels.
