Record Rainfall Causes Widespread Flash Flooding and Disruption in Milwaukee

August 10, 2025 — Milwaukee, WI – Historic rainfall late on August 9 and into the early hours of August 10 caused severe flash flooding across the Milwaukee metropolitan area, leading to widespread property damage, event cancellations, and emergency rescues.

The intense storms, part of a larger weather system affecting the central United States, dropped nearly 7 inches of rain in Milwaukee, with radar estimates indicating some areas may have received as much as 10 to 11 inches, according to the National Weather Service.

Extensive Flood Damage, Dozens Rescued

Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski reported that emergency crews performed 65 water rescues overnight. Dozens of residents were rescued from submerged vehicles or from the roofs of their cars. Despite the severe flooding, no fatalities had been reported as of midday August 10.

Mayor Cavalier Johnson urged residents to remain indoors and avoid driving, emphasizing that road conditions remained dangerous and emergency resources were stretched thin.

Residents Face Devastating Losses

On the city’s northwest side near Glendale, resident Jacqueline Zeledon described significant flooding in her home. “Three feet of water poured into our basement after 2 a.m.,” she said. “All is lost. Our furnace, water heater, freezer, CD collection, appliances—everything is damaged.”

Zeledon said several neighbors reported similar flooding, with water reaching thigh height in some homes. Debris filled the streets, manhole covers were displaced, and a disoriented dog wandered through the floodwaters.

Major Events Canceled Due to Weather

The flooding forced the early closure of the Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis. Organizers confirmed the fair would not reopen for its final scheduled day on August 10. The USA Triathlon Sprint and Paratriathlon National Championships, also scheduled in Milwaukee, were canceled due to unsafe conditions.

Despite the weather, some State Fair attendees made the most of the situation. The Wisconsin State FFA Honors Band and Choir gave a well-attended impromptu performance inside the Youth Exhibit Hall as people sought shelter from the storm. “It was a more entertaining performance than we had expected,” said band director Monte Dunnum. “We were able to lift spirits despite the weather.”

The Milwaukee Brewers’ home game against the New York Mets proceeded as scheduled on August 10, though the roof at American Family Field briefly leaked during the previous night’s game.

Record-Breaking Rainfall Totals

The National Weather Service confirmed that 5.74 inches of rain fell on August 9 alone, shattering Milwaukee’s previous daily rainfall record of 1.64 inches. Additional rain brought the storm total to nearly 7 inches by early August 10.

Jennifer Gray, a meteorologist at Weather.com, reported radar estimates showing local rainfall totals as high as 11 inches in some areas.

River Levels Declining After Historic Highs

River levels, which surged overnight, began to recede by the afternoon of August 10. The Milwaukee River in downtown Milwaukee peaked at a record 11.19 feet before falling to 8.7 feet, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Andrew Quigley.

Officials continue to monitor area rivers as scattered rain showers persist.

Officials: "Do Not Drive Through Floodwaters"

Despite repeated warnings, city officials expressed frustration as motorists continued to drive through flooded intersections. “We’ve told people over and over again: don’t drive through water,” said Fire Chief Lipski. “Hundreds of vehicles are now stranded, blocking intersections and delaying emergency response.”

He added, “We need everyone’s cooperation. We simply cannot be everywhere at once.”

Source: usatoday.com