Milwaukee is facing the aftermath of heavy rain and flooding that led to power outages, property damage, and the early shutdown of the Wisconsin State Fair. WISN shared that Mayor Cavalier Johnson stated the city received more than a foot of rain last Saturday into Sunday, resulting in the worst flooding in over ten years. No injuries have been reported. The city is concentrating on recovery and resident safety.
During the heavy rain, the Milwaukee Fire Department received about 614 emergency calls in 11 hours, as reported by WISN. They responded to basement flooding, fallen trees, flooded vehicles, and unsafe buildings. Milwaukee County declared a state of emergency to access more resources. Many drivers left their cars because of rising floodwaters. Nearly 18,000 We Energies customers lost power, as per NBC Chicago.
According to FOX6Now, recovery and cleanup continue as several counties remain under a state of emergency. Governor Evers activated the National Guard to assist with relief efforts. A flood warning is set to expire on Monday morning, but officials expect more rain and river flooding. Fire officials advised residents to avoid floodwaters because of dangerous currents and hidden hazards like exposed manholes. WISN quoted Mayor Johnson saying, "This flooding event is very significant. It's something that Milwaukee hasn't seen in perhaps a decade or more." The Red Cross opened emergency shelters on the south side and near Washington Park for displaced people.
