NEW LONDON, Wis. (WFRV) – Floodwaters in New London have transformed streets into rivers and backyards into lakes on Thursday.
New London community shows up to support pizzeria with flooded streets
The rising water has been especially devastating for local agricultural operations. At ‘Bees and Blossoms Farm’, owners say years of work have been wiped out in a matter of days.
“We’ve lost pretty much everything we have planted,” Elizabeth Struck said. “We lost over 100 heads of garlic, and other plants that were finally about to take off.”
After six years of building their business, the farm’s owners estimate losses between $5,000 and $10,000 in expected profits for the season.
“This is just unprecedented,” Struck said. “I don’t know the history of this city, but people are saying maybe in the ’50s it was this bad.”
Despite the destruction, residents say the response from the community has been overwhelming.
“Everyone is stepping up. It’s really incredible to see,” Struck said. “Some people talk badly about small towns, but ours has been amazing.”
Volunteers are also playing a critical role in rescue efforts. Members of a local humane society have been navigating hazardous conditions to save stranded animals.
“We have been navigating the unknown,” said volunteer Brittney Schmidt. “We chased one cat in waist-high water with a net.”
After hours of searching, Schmidt said the team was exhausted but determined.
“A nap and some water would be great,” Schmidt said.
But their efforts paid off when they successfully reunited one missing pet with its owner.
Little Chute Public Works monitoring storm drains after heavy rainfall
“We’ve reunited one cat with a little boy who dearly missed him,” Schmidt said. “Little Sullivan got his cat back.”
As floodwaters continue to rise in New London, residents face an uncertain recovery. But amid the destruction, a strong sense of community has emerged.
