Photos: Milwaukee County Swamped as Torrential Rains Trigger State Of Emergency

MILWAUKEE, WI — Torrential rain pounded southeast Wisconsin over the weekend, dumping up to 12 inches in some areas and leaving Milwaukee County, now under a state of emergency, among the hardest hit.

The deluge flooded streets, stranded motorists, and sent the Menomonee River spilling into parks and neighborhoods.

Nearly 47,000 homes and businesses lost power, firefighters handled more than 600 emergency calls, and two Red Cross shelters opened for displaced residents as crews worked around the clock to pump basements, clear debris, and conduct water rescues.

The flooding also forced the cancellation of the Wisconsin State Fair’s final day and the USA Triathlon Sprint and Paratriathlon National Championships in Milwaukee, which were expected to draw thousands of athletes.

The Brewers’ Sunday afternoon game against the Mets went ahead at American Family Field, but the stadium’s parking lot remained closed due to flooding, with the team warning it could not guarantee parking even for fans who purchased spots in advance.

"Flooding is still an active emergency situation across Milwaukee County, and we are expecting more rain today and into this evening. Our top priority is the life and safety of Milwaukee County residents," said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley.

"I strongly urge our residents to stay cautious, stay informed, and refrain from traveling. Check in on your neighbors and loved ones, especially older adults, and seek out emergency assistance if needed. I am thankful to our first responders, law enforcement partners, social services workers, and neighbors who are lending a helping hand during a challenging time. We will get through this together, Milwaukee."

In the event of an emergency, people are advised to call 911. To report property damage, call 211.

Authorities provided the following tips to stay safe and informed:

• Do not walk into the floodwater. Floodwater may be contaminated with sewage, may have contact with live electrical wires, may contain hidden debris, or may have a strong current.
• Refrain from driving, unless in the case of an emergency. If you need to drive, do not drive on flooded streets.
• If you clean up debris, wear boots and gloves, and thoroughly wash your hands after.
• If your residence is without power, disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges, keep freezers and refrigerators closed to keep food safe, and make alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
• To reduce the risk of wastewater backing up into the basements of homes and businesses, limit water usage by holding off on washing dishes and laundry and taking shorter showers.
• To report flooding, downed trees, or other public damage from the storm in the City of Milwaukee visit milwaukee.gov/Click4Action.
• Connect with your municipality for additional mitigation efforts and resources.