**Wet Weather Impacts in Mishicot** 

**April 13-16, 2026**

With the recent severe wet weather conditions, power outage, equipment failure, and flooding in Mishicot last week, the community’s sanitary sewer system was overwhelmed by storm water. The flooding caused the East Twin River to rise significantly, leading to the closure of WI State Highway 147 due to floodwaters.

The heavy rains resulted in an influx of storm water into the sewer system, caused by inflow and infiltration (I&I) of storm/flood water into our sanitary sewer collection system. At its peak, Mishicot’s sewer system received approximately 800,000 gallons of storm water and wastewater per day—more than four times the normal flow, which averages around 185,000 gallons per day.

Due to the extreme conditions and the risk of severe property damage, it was necessary to release untreated sewage into the East Twin River. This action was taken, as there was no feasible alternative to prevent significant property damage throughout the Village. The release is estimated to be 650,000 gallons, which took place starting Tuesday April 14, 2026 starting a 1:00 am. Our infrastructure and pump equipment was finally able to withstand the added flow around 11:00 am on Thursday April 16, 2026. The Wisconsin DNR has been notified of the release and there was little potential for human exposure to untreated sewage.

The Mishicot Public Works team worked tirelessly around the clock to manage the situation, monitor the flooding, and coordinate with emergency responders to mitigate impacts on the community.

The team is also working with local partners to address the causes of I&I, which include improper connections such as downspouts, sump pumps, foundation drains, and cracks in pipes.

**Important Note:** 

The sanitary sewer system in Mishicot, like in many communities, is separate from storm water drainage systems. During heavy rain events, the sewer system becomes inundated with storm water, which it is not designed to handle. This results in increased flow, causing a potential for an overflow, and risks to homes and infrastructure.

Any property owner that sustained damage from a sewage backup in your basement can call Village Hall at 920-755-2525 and leave your name, address and phone number.  This will then be provided to our insurance claim specialist who will reach out to those affected by sewage backups.