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Threat of Rock River flooding recedes

JANESVILLE — Minor flooding along the Rock River is expected all week, but parks won’t be under water, Main Street won’t house carp and roads should not close.

The river at Afton is predicted to peak at 10.98 feet Thursday, a far cry from its record-breaking level of 13.51 feet in June 2008. Floodwaters could impact Riverside Park and South River Road.

At Newville, the river should crest Tuesday at 10.3 feet. The record is 15.12 feet in June 2008. Floodwaters could impact homes and boat docks in the Blackhawk Island area of Lake Koshkonong.

In Brodhead, the Sugar River should peak at 5.9 feet today. The record is 11.4 feet in September 1915. Some roads in Avon Township could become flooded. Minor flooding also might occur in Sugar River Park.

The upper branches of the Rock River are already cresting and falling pretty fast, said Chris Franks, National Weather Service meteorologist.

“As soon as we see that, things are going to get better on the lower Rock within a few days,” he said. “It’s good news.”

And the weather is predicted to be mostly sunny for several days with thunderstorms possible later in the week. The dry weather should help the river recede, Franks said.

The Rock County Sheriff’s Office has been watching roads for flooding. The intersection of Lakeshore Drive and Road Seven had water on it Saturday.

Janesville closed Riverside Wading Pool to prevent pump damage and water system failure. Palmer Wading Pool and Rockport Pool remain open.

The city of Janesville and towns of Fulton, Milton, Janesville, Rock and Beloit have issued a slow/no wake restriction on the river.

The Rock Aqua Jays also canceled their show Sunday.

The weather is predicted to be mostly sunny today with a high of 82 and a low of 60.