KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — Flooding concerns escalated Sunday as Kenosha County joined the Village of Salem Lakes and the Town of Wheatland in declaring states of emergency following days of heavy rain, rising water and dangerous road conditions across the area.

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Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman signed an executive order Sunday declaring a countywide state of emergency because of severe weather, flooding and dangerous conditions affecting nearly every major roadway and low-lying area in the county.

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County officials said the ground has become saturated following weeks of heavy rain and severe weather, creating widespread flooding that threatens public infrastructure, private property and the safety of residents attempting to travel throughout the county.

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The Village of Salem Lakes had already declared a state of emergency Saturday after flooding damaged roads and property and forced multiple rescues. Village officials warned that more rescues may be needed in the coming days as water levels remain high and dangerous conditions continue.

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Town of Wheatland officials also declared a state of emergency Monday, saying excessive rainfall had caused flooding, road damage and property damage throughout the town. Wheatland officials said multiple rescues had already taken place and warned more could follow if conditions worsen.

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The declarations allow local governments to take extraordinary emergency measures and seek additional help from Kenosha County and the State of Wisconsin.

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Officials throughout the county are continuing to urge residents not to drive through flooded roads, warning that even a small amount of moving water can carry a vehicle off the roadway. Residents are also being asked to avoid floodwaters, obey road closures and use caution near rivers, streams and drainage areas.

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Emergency crews from local fire departments, law enforcement agencies and public works departments remain active across Kenosha County responding to flooded roads, stranded vehicles and other weather-related emergencies.

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