Record-breaking rain, dangerous flash-flooding in Milwaukee

[Administrator]

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, experienced historic flash flooding over the weekend of August 9–10, 2025, due to record-breaking rainfall. Some areas received up to 14 inches of rain in a short period, overwhelming drainage systems and causing severe disruptions across the region.




Impacts
Record Rainfall: Milwaukee recorded 5.75 inches of rain on August 9, marking the second-wettest day in the city's history. In some areas, radar estimates indicated over 10 inches of rain.

Historic River Crest: The Milwaukee River at Estabrook Park reached a record crest of 11.19 feet, surpassing the previous record of 10.5 feet set in 2010.

Emergency Measures: Milwaukee County declared a state of emergency, and the Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in West Allis were closed due to dangerous conditions. Scheduled events, including a Lynyrd Skynyrd concert, were

Rescue Operations: Emergency responders conducted over 600 calls for water rescues, gas leaks, and flooded basements. The Milwaukee Fire Department reported pulling dozens of people from vehicles trapped in floodwaters.


Power Outages: Nearly 47,000 customers in southeastern Wisconsin lost power due to the storms.


Ongoing Threat
The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings and watches for parts of Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri, with additional rounds of heavy rain expected. Residents are advised to avoid driving or walking through flooded areas and to stay informed about weather updates.


For more detailed coverage and images of the flooding, you can refer to the following articles:

Axios: Historic flash floods hit Milwaukee

PBS Wisconsin: Last day of 2025 Wisconsin State Fair canceled

Watchers: Historic flooding hits Milwaukee region