Chippewa River Flood Information

The Chippewa River flows through Pepin County, splitting the county into an eastern and western side as it flows into the Mississippi River. Flood impacts are possible on both sides of the Chippewa River with flooding impacts expected to affect a number of homes and businesses within Pepin County.

The Chippewa River Flood Gauge at Durand is located elevation of 692.7 feet above sea level; the gauge should be monitored during both spring melts and heavy rain events that impact northwestern Wisconsin as Pepin County is at the bottom of the Chippewa River watershed. Businesses and residents living in the floodplain should pay attention to the flood gauge, especially during snow melts as ice jams can cause the river to rise quickly.

• At 12.5 feet, River Street begins to flood; the lower road (County Road P) also begins to flood. 
• At 13-15 feet (minor flood stage) the basements of businesses in the City of Durand downtown district start to flood (varies by building)
• At 17 feet, (major flood stage) water begins to enter the lower level of Durand City Hall

Pepin County recently updated the FEMA floodplain maps for the Chippewa River via a LOMR process so that we have more accurate information about the floodplain elevations throughout the county. The flood elevations vary significantly as one travels downstream the river.