Recent heavy rains in the upper Chippewa River watershed are resulting in increased runoff passing through the system, and will result in rising river levels on the Chippewa River in Eau Claire.
At 5 a.m. the Chippewa River gauge at Grand Avenue read 770.6 feet, which is approximately three (3) feet below the flood state reading of 773.
The current crest projection is 771.7 feet for Tuesday, May 21. At this gauge reading, water will have inundated some areas of the Chippewa River Trail.
At this level, for the safety of residents the following areas are closed:
o Chippewa River Trail
Lighting along the Eau Claire river has been disconnected
street underpasses
Farwell St.
Madison St.
UW-Eau Claire Fine Arts Building
Boat landing behind Hobbs Ice Arena
o Owen Park – including; lower levels, tennis courts, and band shell
The City will continue to monitor the river closely and provide information and updates as necessary.