Torrential rainfall has caused severe flooding in the Midwest, particularly in Wisconsin, where the state fair, roads, and Milwaukee airport have been affected. Milwaukee received 5.74 inches of rain on Saturday, setting a new daily record, with some areas seeing over 14 inches by Sunday morning, according to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewage District.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flash flood warning through Sunday morning for Milwaukee and surrounding areas, warning of up to 1.5 inches of rain per hour and potentially life-threatening conditions. The Central Plains and Midwest are expected to see more rain and flash floods, with severe thunderstorms, hail, and isolated tornadoes possible through Sunday night.
The Wisconsin State Fair closed around 9 p.m. local time on Saturday due to the flooding, cancelling a scheduled performance by Lynyrd Skynyrd. Video footage showed fair-goers wading through ankle-deep water and cars trapped in floodwaters. Fair officials urged visitors to exit safely and follow staff directions.
Basement flooding has been widespread, with residents like Jacqueline Zeledon reporting three feet of water damaging furnaces, water heaters, and other belongings. Milwaukee Alderman Peter Burgelis stated that “everything is flooded” and that roads are underwater, with rescue operations underway. The 911 system has received a high volume of calls.
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport experienced flooding on nearly all runways, taxiways, and an underpass tunnel, leading to 50 delays on Saturday and 12 more by Sunday morning. Approximately 42,000 residents are without power, according to We Energies.
