Southeastern Wisconsin is contending with widespread flash flooding after a slow-moving and chaotic storm system delivered record-breaking rainfall over the weekend, leading to a state of emergency, canceled events, and numerous water rescues. The severe weather prompted the early closure and subsequent cancellation of the Wisconsin State Fair, leaving thousands without power and multiple roadways submerged.
According to reports, the Milwaukee area experienced its second-wettest day on record on Saturday, with 5.74 inches of rain falling in the evening, a figure that far surpassed the previous daily record of 1.64 inches. By Sunday morning, some communities had received more than 10 inches of rain. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington counties, advising that additional rainfall of 1 to 3 inches is possible, which could worsen already dangerous conditions. A flood watch for the region remains in effect until Monday morning.
The torrential downpours have had a significant impact on daily life and infrastructure. The Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis was forced to shut down early on Saturday night, and fair officials announced the cancellation of its final day on Sunday. In a statement, organizers said the decision was made due to current conditions and the forecast ahead. The storms also led to the cancellation of a Lynyrd Skynyrd concert and the USA Triathlon Sprint and Paratriathlon National Championships in Milwaukee.
Local officials have been in a high-response mode, with Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski confirming that 65 water rescues were completed overnight. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson declared a state of emergency in the county, calling the event “very significant” and something the city has not seen in a decade or more. Residents are being urged to avoid all unnecessary travel, with officials repeatedly advising people not to drive through floodwaters. We Energies reported nearly 10,000 power outages in Milwaukee County and over 8,000 in neighboring Waukesha County. Additionally, the Menomonee and Milwaukee Rivers overflowed their banks, with the Milwaukee River reaching a record high of 11.19 feet in downtown Milwaukee.