Severe Storms, Floods & State Emergency #289 [developing]
Key Questions
What flood damage did First Lutheran Church in Janesville sustain?
First Lutheran Church suffered approximately $2 million in damages from flooding, leaving the congregation without a home since the incident.
Has the Newville Boat Launch on the Rock River been reopened?
Yes, the Wisconsin DNR has reopened the Newville Boat Launch in Rock County after it was closed due to April flooding.
What are the current Rock River levels and recent incidents?
The Rock River is rising to 11.7-12.2 feet. A rescue occurred at Traxler Park on May 12.
Who was the victim in the fatal Locust Street house fire on May 11?
Eugene Stewart, a 69-year-old Janesville man, died in the fire on South Locust Street. It marks the fourth fire-related death in Janesville since 2022, with no working smoke alarms in any of the incidents.
Were there any injuries in the recent duplex fire on Tudor Drive?
No injuries were reported in the duplex fire on the 600 block of Tudor Drive on May 12. Fire crews responded to damage both units.
What is the weather forecast for the coming days?
Ongoing showers and storms are expected Thursday through Friday, with severe storm risks over the weekend. Highs will reach the lower 80s, following scattered showers.
What are the total damages and impacts from the recent storms and floods?
Damages exceed $30 million, with Washington Elementary closed and roads potentially affected through May 27. Governor Evers has activated aid, and FEMA is active.
How many Janesville fire deaths since 2022 lacked working smoke alarms?
All four fire-related deaths in Janesville since 2022 occurred in homes without working smoke detectors, including the most recent on May 11.
Post-flood recovery: First Lutheran Church $2M damages; DNR reopens Newville Boat Launch; Rock River rising 11.7-12.2ft, Traxler Park rescue May12; fatal Locust fire May11 (4th no-alarm death since 2022), minor Tudor/Brunswick May12; ongoing showers/storms Thu-Fri+severe weekend risks; $30M+ damages, Washington Elem closed, roads thru May27, Evers aid/FEMA active.