Waupaca County residents are being urged to evacuate due to an imminent dam break

An urgent warning on an impending dam failure on the Little Wolf River below the Manawa Dam in Waupaca County has been issued by the Green Bay National Weather Service (NWS). Significant flooding is anticipated downstream of the Little Wolf River and the Manawa Dam.

It is advised that residents relocate right away to higher ground. “Take immediate action to safeguard your life,” the NWS said on Facebook. “Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”

A warning of flash flooding has been issued for Waupaca County’s center region. Severe floods and road washouts have been recorded in the City of Manawa, affecting Howard Street, Beech Street, Union Street, N. Bridge Street, and Industrial Drive. It is advisable that residents travel during this time of year.

Manawa High School is offering emergency shelter, and because of the water, law enforcement is restricting entrance to the city. The alert will be in force until 1:15 p.m. A nearby assisted living facility had to be evacuated due to more than five inches of rain, according to the NWS.