Wisconsin, 2025

Flash Flooding and Flooding in Wisconsin, August 9 to 13, 2025

August 9 to 13, 2025 · NWS MKX · 17 events in 4 counties and zones

A historic flash flood and record rainfall occurred over portions of the Milwaukee Metropolitan Area and Southeast WI resulting in damages in the $100s Millions. Warm, moist, and unstable air rose along a stalled front to produce numerous thunderstorms and more than 10 inches of rain in many locations.

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it. Tap one for its entry below.

  • Tornadoes
  • Tropical storms and surge
  • Floods
  • Wind
  • Hail
  • Winter weather
  • Heat and drought
  • Cold
  • Fire, smoke and dust
  • Marine and coastal
  • Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths
2
Injuries
2
Property damage
$172 million
Crop damage
$31,000
Events
17

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS MKX wrote it up.

A historic flash flood and record rainfall occurred over portions of the Milwaukee Metropolitan Area and Southeast WI resulting in damages in the $100s Millions. Warm, moist, and unstable air rose along a stalled front to produce numerous thunderstorms and more than 10 inches of rain in many locations. Widespread flash flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods occurred. A homeless camp in Milwaukee underneath 1st Street Bridge adjacent to the surge of record flooding on the Kinnickinnic River was swept away. One or two deaths may be a result of this flash flooding with a couple others missing. Thousands of residential homes or businesses sustained major flood damage with dozens classified as destroyed due to 1st floor flooding, basement flooding or foundation collapse. Residential sewage backups, and raw sewage released into rivers and Lake MI by many municipalities was common. A small number of complete road washouts and swift water rescues occurred, in addition to dozens of people stranded in their vehicles in deep, still water in low lying areas. First responders had difficulty getting to their 911 calls including stranded motorists and flooded neighborhoods, due to the numerous flooded roads. Dozens of people were evacuated or relocated from their flooded homes and neighborhoods. Longer duration areal flooding and river flooding, which ranged from moderate flooding to record flooding, then continued for a couple more days. In addition to the flash flooding, a couple hikers were struck by lightning, via a ground current from a nearby strike on a tree, on the Ice Age Trail near Palmyra. They were initially rendered unconscious but did survive.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Milwaukee, WI wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Aug 9, 7:28 PM CST, 17 minutes earlier. Its key messages:

  • Flood Watch expanded to cover southeast Wisconsin tonight until 7 AM CDT Monday. Numerous thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected over se WI into portions of south central WI. Flash flooding is possible especially in urban areas including the Milwaukee metro area.
  • Additional periods of storms expected Sunday afternoon into Monday, posing additional heavy rainfall potential. A Flood Watch remains in effect through 7 AM Monday morning for all of S WI.
Area forecast discussion, Aug 9, 7:28 PM CST, 17 minutes before
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan WI
828 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

.KEY MESSAGES...

- Flood Watch expanded to cover southeast Wisconsin tonight
  until 7 AM CDT Monday. Numerous thunderstorms and heavy rain
  are expected over se WI into portions of south central WI.
  Flash flooding is possible especially in urban areas including
  the Milwaukee metro area.

- Additional periods of storms expected Sunday afternoon into
  Monday, posing additional heavy rainfall potential. A Flood
  Watch remains in effect through 7 AM Monday morning for all of
  S WI.

&&

.UPDATE...
Issued 828 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

925-850 mb moisture transport is increasing out of the southwest
early this evening and riding up and over the outflow boundary
over far srn WI. In addition, corfidi vector ridging is present
over se WI along the PWAT axis of 2 inches. Expect numerous
thunderstorms and heavy rain to continue over se WI including
MKE this evening. Flash flooding will likely occur in these
areas. This could continue into overnight, but also refocus
farther west into south central WI as the swly LLJ of 25 kts
broadens into that area. The Flood Watch for the potential for
flash flooding has been expanded to include all of southern WI
until 12Z Mon.

Gehring

&&

.SHORT TERM...
Issued 300 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

Tonight through Sunday night:

Synopsis/Mesoanalysis: A weak surface boundary is working into
southern Wisconsin this afternoon, encouraging shower and storm
development from the Madison metro north into the Fox River Valley.
Lift from the surface boundary is being further supported by subtle
MCV extending from central Wisconsin into the Wisconsin River
Valley, with an additional MCV apparent over the Waterloo, IA
vicinity. Expect shower and storm activity to continue sagging south
and east with the surface boundary through the remainder of the
afternoon, with additional storm development anticipated this
evening as the Waterloo MCV tracks into southern Wisconsin. An
isolated strong to severe storm is possible in this activity, with
damaging winds being the primary concern. A brief lull may follow
the evening activity, with additional storm development anticipated
after midnight as the low level jet ramps up. Torrential downpours
will be possible in this evening's & overnight's storms, which could
lead to hydro impacts across the area, with the greatest potential
for impacts (particularly any flash flooding) in areas experiencing
multiple rounds of storms. Additional storm development is
anticipated Sunday afternoon into Monday morning, with development
corridors being highly dependent on MCV's & where the progressing
surface boundary settles following tonight's convection. Additional
torrential downpours and flooding potential will exist in these
storms, with potential once more being maximized in areas of
training. A Flood Watch remains in effect through 7 AM Monday to the
northwest of the Milwaukee metro, where training potential will be
greatest.

Rest Of This Afternoon & Tonight: Heat and humidity will continue,
with heat indices in the upper 90s over southeastern Wisconsin. A
few spots will briefly climb to the 100 degree mark over this part
of the area. A high swimming risk continues through the first part
of this evening at Ozaukee and Sheboygan County beaches, with a
moderate swimming risk further south. Exercise extreme caution if
heading lakeside through this evening.

Quigley

&&

.LONG TERM...
Issued 300 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

Monday through Saturday:

Synopsis: The surface boundary at the center of the short term's
shower and storm chances will linger across southern Wisconsin
during the Monday-Tuesday timeframe, supporting additional periods
of showers and thunderstorms. Much like in the short term period,
weak wind shear should keep severe potential lower in any Monday-
Tuesday activity, though a still very humid air mass will support
additional torrential downpour potential (particularly on Monday).
Additional hydrologic impacts are thus possible in early week
thunderstorms, particularly in regions experiencing repeated rounds
of heavy rainfall. What's left of the surface boundary will push
east of the region Tuesday night, resulting in a brief period of
west-northwest winds & slightly less humid conditions through
Wednesday. The briefly lower humidity will be short-lived, as re-
establishing south-southeasterly winds will push dew points upward
Wednesday night through Saturday. Additional periods of showers and
storms return to the forecast during this time period as
temperatures gradually trend upward.

Monday through Tuesday: With a surface boundary still draped across
the area, additional periods of showers and embedded storms are
forecast. Chances for storms are overall higher Monday relative to
Tuesday (~40-60% Monday compared to ~15-30% Tuesday), with activity
expected to shutdown entirely by Tuesday night as the responsible
boundary pushes east of the region. Shear will remain weak through
the entirety of this time frame, making severe potential overall low
in any storm development. Still elevated humidity & precipitable
waters pooled along the surface boundary, however, will support the
continued possibility for heavy downpours. Could thus continue to
see more minor hydro impacts (urban/small stream flooding, small
rises on area rivers/creeks) through Tuesday afternoon. Have
maintained the 12Z Monday end time of the Flood Watch in this
forecast, but will continue to monitor trends in the coming
updates.

Quigley

&&

.AVIATION...
Issued 828 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

Sct-bkn040-050 tnt-Sun with rounds of showers and thunderstorms.
Areas of MVFR Cigs and Vsbys tnt becoming more widespread over
south central WI on Sunday. Local low Cigs and Vsbys at times
near and after storms.

Gehring

&&

.MARINE...
Issued 300 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

1002 mb low pressure will linger across Manitoba into this evening,
with 1024 mb high pressure remaining centered over the Mid-Atlantic
states. Placed between the two surface features, breezy southerly
winds will continue across the open waters through the first half of
tonight. Prevailing southerlies will gradually decrease after
midnight as the aforementioned surface high migrates east into the
Atlantic Ocean. Generally southerly winds will continue into the day
on Sunday as a weak surface front moves into western Wisconsin,
ultimately stopping short of the open waters. Periods of showers and
storms are forecast this evening through Sunday night. Widespread
severe weather is not expected, though a few storms could produce
brief gusty winds. Winds will trend south to southwesterly during
the day Monday as 1002 mb low pressure moves into the Hudson Bay.

Breezy southerly winds will continue in nearshore zones through the
rest of this afternoon, with widespread 22-25 knot gusts
anticipated. The gusts will be accompanied by elevated wave heights,
particularly from Port Washington and points north. Gusts and wave
heights will gradually taper from south to north through this
evening, with decreasing trends continuing after midnight. A Small
Craft Advisory thus remains in effect until 7 PM CDT from Port
Washington south to Winthrop Harbor, and until 10 PM CDT from Port
Washington to Sheboygan. Periods of showers and thunderstorms are
forecast this evening through early Monday morning. A few storms
could produce gusty winds, particularly this evening.

Quigley

&&

.MKX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
WI...Beach Hazards Statement...WIZ052-WIZ060 until 10 PM Saturday.

     Flood Watch...WIZ046-WIZ047-WIZ051-WIZ052-WIZ056-WIZ057-WIZ058-
     WIZ059-WIZ060-WIZ062-WIZ063-WIZ064-WIZ065-WIZ066-WIZ067-
     WIZ068-WIZ069-WIZ070-WIZ071-WIZ072 until 7 AM Monday.

LM...Small Craft Advisory...LMZ643 until 10 PM Saturday.

&&

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Hazardous weather outlook, Aug 9, 6:52 PM CST, 53 minutes before
Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan WI
752 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

WIZ046-047-051-052-056>060-062>072-110100-
Marquette-Green Lake-Fond du Lac-Sheboygan-Sauk-Columbia-Dodge-
Washington-Ozaukee-Iowa-Dane-Jefferson-Waukesha-Milwaukee-
Lafayette-Green-Rock-Walworth-Racine-Kenosha-
752 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of east central
Wisconsin, south central Wisconsin and southeast Wisconsin.

.DAY ONE...Tonight

A Flood Watch is in effect for the potential for flash flooding
across all of southern Wisconsin into Monday morning. Multiple
rounds of thunderstorms with heavy rain are forecast.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Sunday through Saturday

A Flood Watch will remain in effect for the potential for flash
flooding across all of southern Wisconsin into Monday morning.
Multiple rounds of thunderstorms with heavy rain are forecast.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not anticipated.

LMZ643>646-110100-
Sheboygan to Port Washington WI-
Port Washington to North Point Light WI-
North Point Light to Wind Point WI-
Wind Point WI to Winthrop Harbor IL-
752 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for the nearshore waters from
Sheboygan Wisconsin to Winthrop Harbor Illinois.

.DAY ONE...Tonight

Numerous thunderstorms with frequent lightning and heavy rain.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Sunday through Saturday

Thunderstorm chances linger into next week.

LMZ080-261-362-364-366-563-565-567-669-671-673-675-777-779-868-
870-872-874-876-878-110100-
Lake Michigan Michigan City IN to St. Joseph MI 5 NM offshore to
mid-line of lake.-
Lake Michigan from Seul Choix Point to Rock Island Passage 5NM
offshore to Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan South of a line from Seul Choix Point to the
Mackinac Bridge and North of a line from Charlevoix MI to South
Fox Island 5NM offshore-
Lake Michigan from Charlevoix to Point Betsie MI 5NM Offshore to
mid lake-
Lake Michigan from Point Betsie to Manistee MI 5NM offshore to
Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from Rock Island Passage to Sturgeon Bay WI 5NM
offshore to mid lake-
Lake Michigan from Sturgeon Bay to Two Rivers WI 5NM offshore to
Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from Two Rivers to Sheboygan WI 5NM offshore to Mid
Lake-
Lake Michigan from Sheboygan to Port Washington WI 5NM offshore
to Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from Port Washington to North Point Light WI 5NM
offshore to Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from North Point Light to Wind Point WI 5NM
offshore to Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from Wind Point WI to Winthrop Harbor IL 5NM
offshore to Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from Winthrop Harbor to Wilmette Harbor IL 5NM
offshore to Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from Wilmette Harbor to Michigan City in 5NM
offshore to Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from Pentwater to Manistee MI 5NM offshore to Mid
Lake-
Lake Michigan from Whitehall to Pentwater MI 5NM offshore to Mid
Lake-
Lake Michigan from Grand Haven to Whitehall MI 5NM offshore to
Mid Lake-
Lake Michigan from Holland to Grand Haven MI 5NM offshore to Mid
Lake-
Lake Michigan from South Haven to Holland MI 5NM offshore to Mid
lake-
Lake Michigan from St Joseph to South Haven MI 5NM offshore to
Mid Lake-
752 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for the open waters of Lake Michigan.

.DAY ONE...Tonight

Numerous thunderstorms with frequent lightning and heavy rain over
the south half.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Sunday through Saturday

Thunderstorm chances linger into next week.

www.weather.gov/mkx

In the hours before

Special weather statement, Aug 9, 1:46 PM CST, 5 hours 59 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan WI
246 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

WIZ058-092030-
Dodge WI-
246 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL IMPACT NORTHWESTERN DODGE COUNTY
THROUGH 330 PM CDT...

At 246 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near
Fall River, or near Columbus, moving northeast at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph and penny size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
Beaver Dam, Waupun, Columbus, Lomira, Burnett, Fox Lake, Brownsville,
Danville, South Beaver Dam, Atwater, Astico, and Leipsig.

This includes U.S. Highway 151 between mile markers 120 and 146.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio
stations and available television stations for additional information
and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

&&

LAT...LON 4327 8901 4345 8901 4363 8897 4363 8844
TIME...MOT...LOC 1946Z 221DEG 17KT 4339 8896

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN
MAX WIND GUST...55 MPH

BOXELL
Special weather statement, Aug 9, 2:06 PM CST, 5 hours 39 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan WI
306 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

WIZ051-052-058-059-063>065-092030-
Dodge WI-Waukesha WI-Sheboygan WI-Washington WI-Fond Du Lac WI-
Jefferson WI-Dane WI-
306 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

...STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL IMPACT SOUTHEASTERN FOND DU LAC...
NORTHWESTERN WAUKESHA...SOUTHEASTERN DANE...WASHINGTON...JEFFERSON...
EASTERN DODGE AND SOUTHWESTERN SHEBOYGAN COUNTIES THROUGH 330 PM
CDT...

At 304 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms
developing along a line extending from near Theresa to near
Stoughton. This line of development is moving southeast at 25 mph.
Once storms develop individual storms will move to the northeast.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and half inch hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
West Bend, Watertown, Hartford, Stoughton, Fort Atkinson, Jefferson,
Lake Mills, Edgerton, Mayville, Slinger, Kewaskum, Horicon, Waterloo,
Juneau, Okauchee Lake, Oconomowoc, Johnson Creek, Lomira, Deerfield,
and Campbellsport.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.

&&

LAT...LON 4364 8788 4354 8799 4354 8804 4350 8804
      4284 8879 4285 8934 4365 8846
TIME...MOT...LOC 2004Z 286DEG 22KT 4352 8838 4295 8921

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN
MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

BOXELL
Special weather statement, Aug 9, 2:41 PM CST, 5 hours 4 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan WI
341 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

WIZ051-052-058>060-063>066-092145-
Dodge WI-Waukesha WI-Milwaukee WI-Sheboygan WI-Washington WI-
Ozaukee WI-Fond Du Lac WI-Jefferson WI-Dane WI-
341 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

...STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL IMPACT OZAUKEE...SOUTHEASTERN FOND DU
LAC...NORTHWESTERN MILWAUKEE...NORTHERN WAUKESHA...EASTERN DANE...
WASHINGTON...NORTHERN JEFFERSON...EASTERN DODGE AND SHEBOYGAN
COUNTIES THROUGH 445 PM CDT...

At 339 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a large area of strong
thunderstorms along a line extending from near Elkhart Lake to near
Lake Mills. Movement of this line was east at 30 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and half inch hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
Northern Milwaukee, Sheboygan, Wauwatosa, Brookfield, Menomonee
Falls, West Bend, Watertown, Mequon, Hartford, Whitefish Bay,
Pewaukee, Brown Deer, Grafton, Cedarburg, Port Washington, Sussex,
Hartland, Plymouth, Sheboygan Falls, and Delafield.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.

&&

LAT...LON 4356 8779 4346 8780 4337 8788 4326 8791
      4318 8788 4314 8790 4310 8789 4311 8909
      4389 8815 4389 8773 4381 8773 4376 8770
      4374 8771 4370 8770
TIME...MOT...LOC 2039Z 252DEG 27KT 4387 8793 4307 8886

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN
MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

BOXELL
Special weather statement, Aug 9, 3:44 PM CST, 4 hours 1 minute before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan WI
444 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

WIZ052-059-060-065-066-092215-
Waukesha WI-Milwaukee WI-Sheboygan WI-Washington WI-Ozaukee WI-
444 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

...STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL IMPACT OZAUKEE...NORTHERN MILWAUKEE...
NORTHERN WAUKESHA...SOUTHEASTERN WASHINGTON AND SOUTHEASTERN
SHEBOYGAN COUNTIES THROUGH 515 PM CDT...

At 444 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a cluster of strong
thunderstorms along a line extending from 9 miles east of Sheboygan
to Lisbon. Movement was east at 25 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and half inch hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
Northern Milwaukee, Sheboygan, Wauwatosa, Brookfield, Menomonee
Falls, Mequon, Whitefish Bay, Pewaukee, Brown Deer, Grafton,
Cedarburg, Port Washington, Sussex, Hartland, Delafield, Jackson, Fox
Point, Saukville, Bayside, and Thiensville.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.

&&

LAT...LON 4368 8770 4357 8779 4349 8779 4338 8787
      4326 8791 4318 8788 4312 8790 4310 8788
      4310 8844 4373 8771
TIME...MOT...LOC 2144Z 255DEG 24KT 4376 8755 4314 8825

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN
MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

BOXELL
Local storm report, Aug 9, 4:12 PM CST, 3 hours 33 minutes before
Preliminary Local Storm Report
National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan WI
512 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0500 PM     Tstm Wnd Dmg     Menomonee Falls         43.18N 88.12W
08/09/2025                   Waukesha           WI   Law Enforcement

            Menomonee Falls PD reports multiple large
            branches and a few 7 to 8 inch diameter
            trees down, with at least one of those
            toppling some power lines.

&&

BHS
Special weather statement, Aug 9, 5:32 PM CST, 2 hours 13 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan WI
632 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

WIZ060-066-092345-
Milwaukee WI-Ozaukee WI-
632 PM CDT Sat Aug 9 2025

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL IMPACT SOUTH CENTRAL OZAUKEE AND
NORTHWESTERN MILWAUKEE COUNTIES THROUGH 645 PM CDT...

At 631 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over
northern Milwaukee, moving northeast at 35 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and half inch hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
Northern Milwaukee, Mequon, Whitefish Bay, Brown Deer, Fox Point,
Bayside, Glendale, and River Hills.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

&&

LAT...LON 4315 8789 4314 8790 4312 8790 4309 8795
      4312 8807 4318 8806 4324 8791 4321 8790
      4319 8790 4318 8788
TIME...MOT...LOC 2331Z 225DEG 31KT 4315 8796

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN
MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

BOXELL

The radar

The Milwaukee radar (KMKX), 60 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 01:46 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

9 flash flood, 8 flood. Local standard time, as filed.

Flash Flood, Milwaukee

When
August 9, 7:45 PM CST to August 10, 4:00 AM CST
Where
Milwaukee County, 2.65 mi SSE of Carrollville to 1.91 mi NNE of Glendale
Cause
Heavy Rain
Deaths
1 direct, 0 indirect
Property damage
$60 million
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
42.845, -87.828

Widespread and numerous reports of flash flooding in streets, in addition to rivers, creeks, and streams across the southern two thirds of Milwaukee County. 1800 homes were classified as major damage or destroyed due to flash flooding of the Lincoln and Honey Creeks. Many instances of flooded basements across the impacted area. Six foundations collapsed into basements of homes in the 60th street neighborhood near Lincoln Creek, with two homes being condemned. Additional basement collapse reported in West Allis near Honey Creek. Many vehicles stranded in flood waters, with multiple water rescues conducted by the Milwaukee Fire Department. Water reached the bottom of car doors at Wisconsin State Fair Park. Reports of water inside vehicles along Delaware Avenue in Bay View. Multiple runway and taxiway closures reported at Mitchell International Airport and Timmerman Field from flooding. Impacts contribute to an estimated $65,813,855 in public and individual infrastructure damages countywide. Brief (30-45 minute total duration) rises into moderate flood stage along the Kinnickinnic River at Milwaukee and Oak Creek in South Milwaukee between 12:30 & 2:30 AM local time on August 10. At 10 feet, water impacts the yards of homes along Oak Creek in South Milwaukee. At 16 feet, flood water is approximately 1 foot over the top of the concrete-lined channel of the Kinnickinnic River at Milwaukee, affecting homes in the residential neighborhood next to the river. Homeless camp swept away as a result of rapid rises along the Kinnickinnic River, leaving some dead and missing.

Flash Flood, Waukesha

When
August 9, 10:00 PM CST to August 10, 4:00 AM CST
Where
Waukesha County, 2.02 mi ENE of Menomonee Falls to 1.91 mi WNW of Menomonee Falls
Cause
Heavy Rain
Injuries
1 direct, 0 indirect
Property damage
$89 million
Crop damage
$10,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.192, -88.064

Widespread flash flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods and homes occurred especially in New Berlin, Brookfield, Butler, Menomonee Falls, Elm Grove, and Muskego. Some of the more notable creeks or rivers that flooded were the Fox and Menomonee Rivers and their tributaries. The Butler Ditch, Jewel Creek, Root River, and other unnamed creeks also flash flooded. For all of Waukesha County, 3 homes were classified as destroyed, 310 homes and businesses sustained major damage, 221 with minor damage and 119 with affected damage. These damages were from a variety of 1st floor flooding, basement flooding, and foundation collapse. Residential sewage backups, and raw sewage released into rivers by many municipalities were common. A small number of complete road washouts and swift water rescues occurred, in addition to dozens of people stranded in their vehicles in deep, still water in low lying areas. More specifically, a partial road washout occurred on Lily Road in Menomonee Falls due to the flash flooding of a tributary of the Menomonee River. The large collapse of a Y-shaped intersection at Campbell Dr. and Campbell Ct. in Menomonee Falls also occurred due to the flash flooding of Butler Ditch. A car was swept away at this intersection but the occupant escaped with minor injuries. 130 St. in New Berlin was partially washed out from the flash flooding of a tributary of the Root River. A swift water rescue occurred on Beres Rd. in New Berlin when a car was swept off the road by floodwaters. Dozens of people were evacuated or relocated from their flooded homes and neighborhoods. Very brief rise into moderate flood stage along the Menomonee River at Menomonee Falls between 1-1:15 AM local time August 10.

Flash Flood, Waukesha

When
August 9, 10:45 PM CST to August 10, 4:00 AM CST
Where
Waukesha County, 2.16 mi WNW of Menomonee Falls to 2.39 mi ENE of Monches
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$9.0 million
Crop damage
$10,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.192, -88.140

Widespread flash flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods and homes occurred especially in New Berlin, Brookfield, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha, Pewaukee, Merton, and Muskego. Some of the more notable creeks or rivers that flooded were the Fox River, Jewel Creek, and their tributaries, as well as some lake flooding. Some flood damage occurred to homes especially near Linnie Lac Lake toward Little Muskego Lake. These damages were from a variety of 1st floor flooding, basement flooding, and foundation collapse. Residential sewage backups, and raw sewage released into rivers by many municipalities were common. A small number of complete road washouts and swift water rescues occurred, in addition to dozens of people stranded in their vehicles in deep, still water in low lying areas. More specifically, one lane of Gold Dr. washed out due to the flash flooding of Jewel Creek in Muskego. Large sections of Barker Road in Brookfield and other nearby roads were closed due to the flash flooding of the Fox River, including the Fox River overtopping the Barker Rd. bridge. Dozens of people were evacuated or relocated from their flooded homes and neighborhoods, which included the Deer Path Subdivision near Minooka Park. A sidewall of the Merton Millpond Dam was damaged but quickly repaired. Many other dams in eastern Waukesha County were at or exceeding their maximum flow capacity, but no dam failures occurred.

Flash Flood, Washington

When
August 10, 1:00 AM CST to 4:30 AM CST
Where
Washington County, 2.35 mi SE of Kirchhayn to 3.2 mi SW of Ackerville
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$2.4 million
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.279, -88.063

Flash flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods in Germantown and surrounding areas. More specifically, the flash flooding of the Menomonee River and its tributaries flooded and closed portions of many roads. This included portions of County Line Road, a lane of I-41, Freistadt Road, Lilac Lane, Maple Road, Rockfield Road, and Wausaukee Road. There was a small number of stranded vehicles in relatively deep, still water, as well as some basement flooding in Germantown.

Flash Flood, Ozaukee

When
August 10, 1:00 AM CST to 4:30 AM CST
Where
Ozaukee County, 2.05 mi SSW of Bayside to 2.7 mi NNE of Bartel
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$450,000
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.192, -87.894

The flash flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods in Mequon, Thiensville, Cedarburg and southern Grafton. More specifically, the flash flooding of Pigeon Creek washed out a portion of Highland Rd. The flash flooding of Olau Creek flooded Pioneer Rd. just west of Port Washington Rd., and also flooded Port Washington Rd. just north of Pioneer Rd. The same creek flooded a portion of Bonniwell Rd. The flash flooding of the Little Menomonee River flooded a portion of County Line Rd. between Tamerland Dr. and Granville Rd. The Mequon Nature Preserve experienced flooding including its Education Center. Other roads were closed near the flooded Milwaukee River. At least 400 basements experienced flooding due to excessive runoff or sewer backups. Several vehicles stranded in floodwaters with some floating in relatively deep water.

Flash Flood, Milwaukee

When
August 10, 1:00 AM CST to 10:00 AM CST
Where
Milwaukee County, 1.46 mi NNW of West Granville to 1.07 mi NNE of Glendale
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$5.8 million
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
43.148, -88.064

Continuation of widespread flash flooding impacts occurring countywide. Delayed flash flooding onset across far northern portions of Milwaukee County, where heavy rain arrived later in the overnight hours of August 9-10, 2025. Additional numerous reports of flash flooding near rivers, creeks, and streams. Numerous reports of water in basements across the impacted area. Portion of 47th street between Churchill Ln & Willow Rd completely washed away from flooding of an unnamed creek in Brown Deer. Flooding impacts contribute to an estimated $65,813,855 in public and individual infrastructure damage across Milwaukee County.

Flash Flood, Washington

When
August 10, 3:30 AM CST to 7:15 AM CST
Where
Washington County, 2.35 mi SE of Kirchhayn to 0.54 mi S of Hartford
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$2.4 million
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.279, -88.063

Flash flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods in West Bend and other communities over northern Washington County. Some vehicles were stranded in relatively deep, still water. The neighborhoods near the Silverbrook Creek Parkway experienced the worst of the flash flooding in West Bend, as several homes suffered foundation damage, while most had basement flooding. Some sewer backups occurred in West Bend. Approximately 316 properties reported flood damage.

Flash Flood, Ozaukee

When
August 10, 3:30 AM CST to 7:15 AM CST
Where
Ozaukee County, 3.2 mi WSW of Five Corners to 3.14 mi NNW of Five Corners
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$50,000
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.308, -88.061

The flash flooding of some streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods in northern Cedarburg, Grafton, Saukville and Port Washington. Some basement flooding due to excessive runoff or sewer backups.

Flood, Waukesha

When
August 10, 4:00 AM CST to August 13, 8:00 AM CST
Where
Waukesha County, 2.02 mi ENE of Menomonee Falls to 1.91 mi ENE of Monches
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$1.0 million
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.192, -88.064

Widespread flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods and homes continued over the eastern half of the county and was aggravated by additional showers and storms. The greatest concentration of flooding was in New Berlin, Brookfield, Butler, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha, Pewaukee, Merton, and Muskego. Some of the more notable creeks or rivers that flooded were the Fox River, Menomonee River, Jewel Creek, Butler Ditch, Root River, and their tributaries, as well as some lake flooding. Some flood damage occurred to homes especially near Linnie Lac toward Little Muskego Lake. These damages were from a variety of 1st floor flooding, basement flooding, and foundation collapse. Residential sewage backups, and raw sewage released into rivers by many municipalities were common. A small number of complete road washouts and swift water rescues occurred, in addition to dozens of people stranded in their vehicles in deep, still water in low lying areas. More specifically, one lane of Gold Dr. washed out due to the flash flooding of Jewel Creek in Muskego. Large sections of Barker Road in Brookfield and other nearby roads were closed due to the flash flooding of the Fox River, including the Fox River overtopping the Barker Rd. bridge. A partial road washout occurred on Lily Road in Menomonee Falls due to the flash flooding of a tributary of the Menomonee River. The large collapse of a Y-shaped intersection at Campbell Dr. and Campbell Ct. in Menomonee Falls also occurred due to the flash flooding of Butler Ditch. 130 St. in New Berlin was partially washed out from the flash flooding of a tributary of the Root River. Dozens of people were evacuated or relocated from their flooded homes and neighborhoods, which included the Deer Path Subdivision near Minooka Park and homes near Linnie Lac. A sidewall of the Merton Millpond Dam was damaged but quickly repaired. Many other dams in eastern Waukesha County were at or exceeding their maximum flow capacity, but no dam failures occurred. River flooding along the Lower Fox River in Waukesha peaks during the evening of August 11, with a 8.62 foot crest in moderate flood stage occurring at 5:15 PM local time. Moderate river flooding continues along Lower Fox River in Waukesha through the morning hours of August 13. In moderate flood stage, water from the Lower Fox River approaches the base of the Bastow St and Bank St Bridges in downtown Waukesha, in addition to some homes in the Bethesda Court area about one half mile south of downtown Waukesha. Water also inundates the Frame Park area, with waters at least 3 feet deep on land near the shoreline of the Lower Fox River. Water approaches Corrina Blvd and Union St to the south of downtown Waukesha.

Flood, Milwaukee

When
August 10, 4:00 AM CST to August 11, 9:00 AM CST
Where
Milwaukee County, 1.45 mi NNW of West Granville to 1.23 mi SSE of Franklin
Cause
Heavy Rain
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.148, -88.065

Lingering areal flooding impacts following the conclusion of flash flooding impacts. Lingering road closures from standing water and rivers/creeks that remain out of their banks. Lingering reports of water in basements, in addition to inundation of properties from standing water. Record crest of 11.25 feet (major flood stage) occurs along the Milwaukee River at Estabrook Park at 4:15 AM local time August 10, with the river remaining in major flood stage until 9 AM local time August 10 and moderate flood stage until 11:15 AM local time August 10. In moderate flood stage, waters from the Milwaukee River at Estabrook Park lead to widespread flooding in the Glendale area, with floodwaters inundating much of Lincoln and Kletsch Parks. Numerous Glendale streets are affected by floodwaters, including but not limited to Bender Rd, West Riverview Dr, North Forest Dr, and North Sunny Point Rd. Moderate river flooding occurs at the Root River in Franklin, with a record crest of 11.71 feet occurring at 3:30 PM local time August 10, and the river remaining in moderate flood stage until 7:15 AM local time August 11. In moderate flood stage, floodwaters from the Root River at Franklin inundate the Root River Pkwy, 8 Mile Rd, 27th St, in addition to yards along the river. Floodwaters from the Root River lead to widespread flooding of agricultural land and lowlands.

Flood, Washington

When
August 10, 4:30 AM CST to August 12, 11:59 PM CST
Where
Washington County, 2.35 mi SE of Kirchhayn to 3.2 mi SSE of Hartford
Cause
Heavy Rain
Deaths
0 direct, 1 indirect
Injuries
0 direct, 1 indirect
Property damage
$1.0 million
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.279, -88.063

A continuation of flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, low lying neighborhoods, and basements in Germantown and surrounding communities. Additional showers and storms aggravated the flooding. Some vehicles stranded in relatively deep, still water. More specifically, the flooding of the Menomonee River and its tributaries flooded and closed portions of many roads. This included portions of County Line Road, the northbound lane of I-41, Freistadt Road, Lilac Lane, Maple Road, Rockfield Road, and Wausaukee Road. The Riversbend Circle neighborhood in southwest Germantown experienced widespread flooding with 2 to 3 feet of water on the streets, especially on Riverbend Circle W. Many homes reported basement flooding and electrical power was lost in the neighborhood. A voluntary evacuation of 48 citizens was conducted by the local government. Overall there were about a 170 reports of flooding in Germantown. An elderly man died and his wife was hospitalized from probable carbon monoxide poisoning from a generator being run in a garage.

Flood, Ozaukee

When
August 10, 4:30 AM CST to August 12, 3:00 PM CST
Where
Ozaukee County, 2.05 mi SSW of Bayside to 2.7 mi NNE of Bartel
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$1,000
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.192, -87.894

The continued areal flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods in Mequon, Thiensville, Cedarburg and southern Grafton. More specifically, the flooding of Pigeon Creek washed out a portion of Highland Rd. The flooding of Olau Creek flooded Pioneer Rd. just west of Port Washington Rd., and also flooded Port Washington Rd. just north of Pioneer Rd. The same creek flooded a portion of Bonniwell Rd. The flooding of the Little Menomonee River flooded a portion of County Line Rd. between Tamerlane Dr. and Granville Rd. The Mequon Nature Preserve experienced flooding including its Education Center. Other roads were closed near the flooded Milwaukee River, which included many roads in a neighborhood near the River Forest Nature Preserve. Other roads flooded and closed due to the flooding of the Milwaukee River were a portion of Green Bay Rd. in Thiensville, River Rd. from Donges Bay Rd. to County Line Rd., and Island Dr. from East Shoreland Dr. to Circle Dr. Sections of I-43 were closed due to flooding. This included I-43 northbound from Pioneer Rd. to Hwy 60. Only one lane of I-43 southbound was open. The I-43 southbound exit ramps to Grafton and Mequon Rd. were closed. Moderate flooding of the Cedar Creek at Cedarburg occurs during the morning and afternoon hours of August 12, with a crest of 11.03 feet occurring at 10:15 AM local time August 12. Moderate river flooding of the Cedar Creek at Cedarburg leads to the closure of Cedar Creek Park in downtown Cedarburg, in addition to the inundation of backyards of some homes and businesses along Sheboygan Rd in the community of Cedarburg. Moderate river flooding continues until 3 PM local time August 12.

Flood, Washington

When
August 10, 7:15 AM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Where
Washington County, 2.35 mi SE of Kirchhayn to 0.54 mi S of Hartford
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$1.0 million
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.279, -88.063

A continuation of flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, low lying neighborhoods, and basements in West Bend and other communities over northern Washington County. Additional showers and storms aggravated the flooding. The neighborhoods near the Silverbrook Creek Parkway in West Bend experienced severe basement flooding, but also several instances of partial foundation collapse. Approximately 316 properties reported flood damage in West Bend.

Flood, Ozaukee

When
August 10, 7:15 AM CST to August 11, 9:00 AM CST
Where
Ozaukee County, 3.18 mi WSW of Five Corners to 3.14 mi NNW of Five Corners
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$1,000
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.308, -88.061

The continued areal flooding of streets, creeks, rivers, and low lying neighborhoods in northern Cedarburg, Grafton, Port Washington and other areas of central and northern Ozaukee County. Sections of I-43 were closed due to flooding. This included I-43 northbound from Pioneer Rd. to Hwy 60. Only one lane of I-43 southbound was open. The I-43 southbound exit ramp to Grafton was closed. The Milwaukee River flooded and closed Riverside Dr. north of highway 33 in Saukville as well as other roads near the river. Some basement flooding continued during this time.

Flash Flood, Waukesha

When
August 10, 7:30 AM CST to 11:00 AM CST
Where
Waukesha County, 1.78 mi ENE of Merton to 0.72 mi NNE of Buena Vista
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$1,000
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.161, -88.288

Some flash flooding of streets, creeks, and low lying neighborhoods in Merton, Hartland, Delafield, Oconomowoc and surrounding areas.

Flood, Milwaukee

When
August 10, 10:00 AM CST to August 11, 9:00 AM CST
Where
Milwaukee County, 1.47 mi NNW of West Granville to 1.07 mi NNE of Glendale
Cause
Heavy Rain
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.148, -88.065

Lingering areal flooding impacts following the conclusion of flash flooding impacts. Lingering road closures from standing water and rivers/creeks that remain out of their banks. Lingering reports of water in basements, in addition to inundation of properties from standing water.

Flood, Ozaukee

When
August 11, 9:00 AM CST to August 13, 5:30 PM CST
Where
Ozaukee County, 0.42 mi W of Thiensville to 1.99 mi WSW of Waubeka
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$4,000
Crop damage
$1,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
43.231, -87.988

The Milwaukee River and Cedar Creek continued to flood from the heavy rainfall of prior days in Ozaukee County. For the flooded Milwaukee River, floodwaters affected Island Dr. and Shoreland Parkway in the Mequon area. Water is over Elm St, Green Bay Rd., and North Cedarburg Rd. in Thiensville. The following roads and intersections are flooded and closed due to the flooding of the Milwaukee River: Portions of Blueberry Rd. and Hawthorne Dr. in the Town of Saukville, Highway W between Highway 33 and Highway 57 in the Village of Saukville. Some parks and park roads are flooded and closed in the county due to the flooded Milwaukee River and Cedar Creek.

The people who died

As the offices recorded each death: direct deaths were caused by the weather itself, indirect ones by something it set in motion.

EventDateAgeSexWhereKind
Flash Flood, Milwaukee2025-08-1048MaleIn WaterDirect
Flood, Washington2025-08-1174MalePermanent StructureIndirect

What these are

Flash Flood
Flooding that begins within six hours of the rain that causes it, or of a dam or levee failure or ice jam release, often with deadly speed.
Flood
Flooding that develops more slowly than a flash flood: rivers leaving their banks, or water standing over land for an extended time.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

More

Every storm in Wisconsin in 2025Every state in 2025This day in weather historyWarnings in Wisconsin, August 2025

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 1284738, 1281030, 1281036, 1281889, 1283064, 1284739, 1282029, 1283155, 1282399, 1284742, 1282219, 1283068, 1282169, 1283165, 1281063, 1284749, 1283172.