While we didn’t get the full impact of Hurricane Irene this weekend, Lake Winona is feeling her effect. Following a beautiful, calm day on Saturday, rain started to come down around 8 pm and didn’t stop until 4 pm on Sunday. Don Thibeault, who maintains a log of lake level measurements indicated by the boat launch water level markings, noted markings before and after the major rainfall. In less than 24 hours the lake had risen 10″. He also noted a rainfall measurement of 4.14″ during the same period.

Many beaches are underwater (see my example below) and I’ve noted a few docks that are close to being underwater. In addition, strong winds last night have downed trees and scattered property that was not secured. If you don’t have plans to be up this weekend, I suggest you contact a neighbor or caretaker to check on your property for possible water and wind damage.