Wisconsin Flash Flooding Triggers Emergency as Milwaukee Rainfall Breaks Historic Record

More than 10 million people across the Midwest were under flood alerts following a weekend of heavy rainfall impacting Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. The relentless downpours triggered flash flooding in Milwaukee, causing Milwaukee County to declare a state of emergency Sunday.

Milwaukee, notably affected, recorded 14.5 inches of rainfall in some areas, a figure that, if confirmed, would break the 1946 Mellen record. As the Milwaukee River surged to a crest of 11.19 feet, surpassing its previous high set in 2010, significant flooding disrupted daily life. Roads became impassable, trapping vehicles and leading to dozens of water rescues. The Milwaukee Fire Department alone performed about 65 rescues.

The Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in West Allis succumbed to the floods, forcing its early closure on Saturday and canceling events, including a concert by Lynyrd Skynyrd. The USA Triathlon's national championships also didn't go forward due to flooding and damage.

A flood warning persisted into Monday morning in Milwaukee as the rain continued to burden southeastern Wisconsin's infrastructure. With streams anticipated to rise further, the National Weather Service issued warnings across much of southern Wisconsin, Missouri, Kansas, and part of northern Oklahoma.

The region saw the impact of this storm system beyond Milwaukee as the suburbs, including Wauwatosa and Bayside, faced submerged streets and residential flooding. As stormwaters flooded basements, residents found themselves grappling with significant property damage, with some homes reported uninhabitable for the foreseeable future.

In Franklin's Root River, first responders rescued a teenager who had been carried by the current. Meanwhile, the Fox River's rising levels in Waukesha and Franklin presented concerns for potential record crests. Forecasts indicate additional rainfall of 1 to 2 inches is expected, extending threats of further floods.

Milwaukee officials underscored the danger of floodwaters in a city where infrastructure suffered considerable strain. The Department of Public Works worked around the clock to clear debris and address the large number of service requests from those affected. Mayor Cavalier Johnson and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley engaged with state emergency services to manage the crisis and declared a state of emergency to facilitate access to state and federal resources.

Not since 2010, when severe flooding caused widespread damage, had Milwaukee experienced flooding of this level. Homes and businesses were inundated as storm sewers struggled against the rainfall's volume. In response, the Red Cross opened shelters for displaced residents, while local authorities urged caution and warned against driving through flooded roadways.

The state of flux remained at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, where operations were impacted by flood-damaged runways and other infrastructure challenges.

Governor Tony Evers deployed National Guard units in support of local efforts, emphasizing the commitment to state-level intervention where necessary. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service noted that the situation remained fluid, with waters retreating in some areas while others remained at risk.

As the community begins to recover, the threat of rain serves as a reminder of the persistent vulnerability the Midwest faces from severe weather patterns. Attention now turns toward preparedness and resilience, with residents, officials, and first responders focused on recovery efforts and mitigating future impacts.