8/18/2026

N. WISCONSIN - Several northern counties in Wisconsin including Iron, Ashland, Bayfield, and Price Counties are experiencing droughts and dry conditions according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.  One of the impacts people may be noticing in the region is lower lake levels in the region.  The Gile flowage water levels are low, that’s very noticeable along highway 51 just south of Hurley.  Experts say this drought is occurring as a part of a natural cycle where water levels rise and drop over 10-15 year periods.  On a scale ranging from D0 to D5 with D5 considered an Exceptional Drought.  Northern Wisconsin is at a D2 which is considered a Severe Drought.  Drought conditions ease some south of Highway 8 into central and Southern Wisconsin.