Flood Damage Grows In Houston County

WINONA, (AP) - Flooding has caused nearly $5.8 million in damages in Houston County.

Houston and Fillmore counties have declared a state of emergency after heavy rain during the weekend, with water levels in areas rising by more than 8 feet.

Fillmore County Emergency Management Director Kevin Beck says damage estimates for that county haven't been finalized yet, but they've reached at least $200,000.

Officials say they hope damage totals of Fillmore, Winona, and Houston counties will together meet the state's $7 million threshold to qualify for assistance.

County officials are also considering combining damages from northern Iowa and western Wisconsin to see if they qualify for federal help. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker declared a state of emergency in seven southwest Wisconsin counties Wednesday.