Devastating Flash Flooding Strikes Milwaukee with Record Rainfall

In early August 2025, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, experienced unprecedented flash flooding due to record-breaking rainfall, leading to widespread damage, event cancellations, and a state of emergency declaration.

On August 9, Milwaukee received approximately 5.74 inches of rain, marking the city's second-wettest day on record, surpassed only by the 6.81 inches recorded on August 6, 1986. Some areas reported up to 14 inches of rainfall over the two-day period, potentially setting new state records pending verification. (climatology.nelson.wisc.edu)

The deluge overwhelmed local drainage systems, submerging streets, basements, and parks. The Milwaukee River at Estabrook Park crested at 11.19 feet, surpassing the previous record of 10.48 feet set in July 2010. Emergency services responded to over 600 calls, including water rescues, gas leaks, and electrical hazards. Approximately 47,000 residents in southeastern Wisconsin experienced power outages. (watchers.news)

The flooding led to the cancellation of major events, including the final day of the Wisconsin State Fair and the USA Triathlon National Championships. Governor Tony Evers declared a state of emergency to facilitate recovery efforts. (apnews.com)

This event is part of a broader trend of increasing precipitation in southern Wisconsin, which has risen by 17% since 1950. The National Weather Service classified the flooding as a thousand-year event, indicating a 0.1% chance of occurring in any given year. (en.wikipedia.org)

In the aftermath, the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District initiated a sewer overflow to prevent sewage backups into properties. By August 12, about 1,500 people in Milwaukee County had reported damages, and local officials encouraged more to report their damages to help the county obtain disaster relief funds from the federal government. (en.wikipedia.org)

The flooding highlights the need for cities to enhance infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events. Discussion on potential measures Milwaukee and similar cities can implement to improve resilience is ongoing.

As Milwaukee continues to recover, the event serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change and the importance of preparedness and adaptation in the face of increasing extreme weather events.