News Summary
The Milwaukee area experienced unprecedented flooding after an intense storm dropped over 12 inches of rain during the weekend. Authorities reported it as a 1,000-year flood, resulting in widespread power outages and significant damage to homes and businesses. Emergency services were overwhelmed by rescue requests, leading to the declaration of a state of emergency. The community faced notable disruptions including the cancellation of events like the Wisconsin State Fair. As recovery efforts begin, residents are coming together to assist those affected by the flooding.
Historic Flooding Hits Milwaukee After Weekend Storm
The Milwaukee area faced an unprecedented storm during the weekend of August 9 to August 10, 2025, leading to flooding that many locals are describing as the worst they’ve ever seen. Rainfall totals in several parts of southeastern Wisconsin exceeded a shocking 12 inches, leading the authorities to classify this incident as a 1,000-year flood, second only in severity to past events.
Rainfall Records Shattered
Four specific areas around Milwaukee recorded rainfall amounts topping 12 inches, while other neighborhoods received between 5 and 11 inches. Some notable totals include:
- 3 miles northeast of Butler: 12.08 inches
- 3 miles east of Pewaukee: 12.61 inches
- Menomonee Falls: 12.05 inches
- Downtown Milwaukee: 9.34 inches
These staggering measurements highlight just how intense the storm was, and the Milwaukee River didn’t just overflow; it crested at a record-breaking 11.19 feet, overtaking the previous record set in 2010.
A Call for Help
As homes and businesses filled with water, tens of thousands found themselves without power. Flooded basements and submerged vehicles became a common sight, especially in communities like Wauwatosa Village. Emergency services were overwhelmed, with Milwaukee’s fire department responding to over 600 calls for assistance.
Community Impact
The flooding even forced the cancellation of the Wisconsin State Fair and the USA Triathlon national championships, disrupting multiple events that many had looked forward to. Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport also faced significant disruptions as water affected runways and taxiways.
Emergency Response and Recovery
With the latest storm causing widespread devastation, Milwaukee County declared a state of emergency on August 10, 2025. Local emergency services, alongside assistance from nearby counties, sprang into action to address the flooding. Residents were advised to stay away from flooded areas and warned about the risks associated with standing water.
As the cleanup began, many were faced with the reality of dealing with damaged homes and ruined personal belongings. Drop-off centers were established across the City of Milwaukee for those with large water-damaged items, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.
What’s Next?
The city is now focused on recovery, with local crews working tirelessly to clear debris and restore services to affected areas. Community members are coming together to lend a hand to their neighbors, showcasing the true spirit of resilience. Milwaukee’s officials remain hopeful that such an extreme weather event does not return for another millennium.
FAQ
What caused the flooding in Milwaukee?
The flooding was a result of an intense storm that dropped more than 12 inches of rain in various parts of southeastern Wisconsin over a weekend.
How severe was the flooding?
It has been classified as a 1,000-year flood, making it the second worst in Milwaukee’s recorded history.
What were some major impacts of the flooding?
Tens of thousands of people lost power, many homes experienced flooded basements, and major events like the Wisconsin State Fair and USA Triathlon were canceled.
What emergency measures were taken?
Milwaukee County declared a state of emergency, and emergency services conducted hundreds of rescues while advising residents to avoid floodwaters.
What recovery efforts are underway?
City crews are working to clear flood damage, and drop-off centers have been established for residents to dispose of water-damaged items.
Quick Summary of Key Features
- Rainfall Amounts: Four locations exceeded 12 inches of rain.
- Emergency Services: Over 600 calls for assistance were recorded.
- Community Cancelations: Events such as the Wisconsin State Fair and USA Triathlon were canceled.
- Response Measures: Milwaukee County declared a state of emergency.
- Cleanup Efforts: Drop-off centers were set up for large water-damaged items.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AP News: Historic Flooding in Wisconsin
- Wikipedia: Flood
- The Guardian: Flooding in Milwaukee
- Google Search: Milwaukee flooding
- JSONline: Milwaukee Rainfall Records
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- CNN: Milwaukee Flooding Updates
- Google News: Milwaukee flood
- Fox 6 Now: Southeast Wisconsin Flooding
- Axios: Milwaukee Flooding Rain Records
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
