Milwaukee faces devastating flash flooding after record rainfall
- A state of emergency was declared in Milwaukee after parts of southeastern Wisconsin experienced over a foot of rain.
- The Wisconsin State Fair's final day was canceled due to significant flooding, impacting numerous scheduled events.
- Officials continue to warn residents about the dangers of flooded areas, emphasizing the need for public safety and caution.
In the United States, flash flooding struck southeastern Wisconsin on Sunday, August 10, 2025, canceling the final day of the Wisconsin State Fair. The Milwaukee area was severely affected by torrential rainfall that resulted in substantial water rescues, power outages, and road closures. Reports indicated that some areas received over 12 inches of rain, marking this event as one of the worst weather occurrences in the region in over a decade. In the aftermath, nearly 47,000 customers lost power due to the extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, firefighters responded to more than 600 emergency calls, including issues related to gas leaks, electrical outages, and multiple water rescues. The City of Milwaukee quickly declared a state of emergency, stressing the need for caution as more rainfall was anticipated throughout the day. Residents were advised to avoid flooded areas, as standing water can be hazardous. Warnings from the National Weather Service highlighted the risk of additional storms and potential tornadoes, prompting city officials and emergency services to mobilize teams to support affected residents. The unsafe conditions forced the USA Triathlon to cancel its national championships, which were scheduled to take place in Milwaukee, citing concerns over safety risks and damaged courses. The flooding not only disrupted community events but also highlighted the vulnerability of urban infrastructure in extreme weather situations. Overall, this disaster underscored the importance of emergency preparedness and community response in the face of natural calamities, with local officials urging the public to exercise caution during such unpredictable and dangerous weather conditions.