River Raisin may reach near-record level

1:59 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2011

By Melissa Burnor

The River Raisin may exceed its banks at near-record levels after heavy rains swamped the area over last couple of days. Nearly  five inches of rain in and around Blissfield have been reported since the storm began on Monday. According to the National Weather Service the River Raisin is expected to crest 686.6 feet as of 11 a.m. Nov. 30. The flood stage was 683 feet at that time. The river is expected to crest some time near noon on Thursday.

Lenawee County Emergency Management Services Director Curtis Parsons was in Blissfield Wednesday to inspect the situation.

"This is the first place in the county it floods." 

Parsons and Blissfield Village Administrator Jim Wonacott said the river was about six inches from the base of the bridge on U.S. 223. There is a potential the bridge could be shut down if the water rises enough to touch the bridge. He said the village is making contingency plans to have both police and department of public works eqiupment and personnel on both sides of the bridge.

If the bridge is shut down the next two closest locations to get around the river are Crockett Highway and Rodesiler Highway in Deerfield.

Parsons also said if anyone is forced to evacuate their home due to flooding, the LCEMS can provide resources and aid by calling 264-4759.