Water flows Friday through the McDill Dam unhindered by ice for the first time in 2014. (City-Times photo)

By Patrick Lynn

The Nation Weather Service has issued a special alert for flooding in Portage County throughout this weekend. Saturday morning that alert was extended to include scattered heavy thunderstorms and hail.

Officials from the National Weather Service say heavy thunderstorms and small hail  residents can be expected throughout Saturday, with rain expected all weekend. The additional runoff has prompted a officials at the NWS to urge caution while near the Wisconsin River, which has reached flood stage due to mild temperatures and melting snow.

The flooding has been anticipated by municipal storm water managers.

Runoff is expected to force water above banks in some areas, with officials watching the Wisconsin River levels below dams in Stevens Point and Whiting.

While up to 1/2 inch of rain is expected throughout Friday, flooding could become a more serious problem over the weekend as 1-2 inches of rain is expected on Saturday and Sunday.

Residents living in low-lying areas or near the river are asked to stay alert and monitor water levels for safety.