Southeast Wisconsin Recovers One Year After Devastating August 2024 Floods

One year ago, communities across Southeast Wisconsin were grappling with the aftermath of catastrophic flash flooding that struck on August 9-10, 2024. The historic deluge led to widespread devastation, prompting multiple counties to declare states of emergency and Governor Evers to deploy the National Guard. Rivers swelled to flood stage, and numerous roadways remained impassable for days.

The cities of Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, and Waukesha were among the hardest hit. Homes and vehicles were destroyed, and countless residents saw their lives upended. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley issued an emergency declaration, while Wauwatosa’s dispatch center fielded over 500 calls, primarily concerning flooded basements and traffic issues. Residents recounted dramatic rescues by boat as neighborhoods transformed into lakes.

In the immediate aftermath, recovery efforts focused on restoring power and managing the overwhelming water damage. We Energies crews worked tirelessly, and city leaders addressed the unprecedented rainfall, noting that no sewer system could handle the 14 inches of rain that fell in a short period. The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) resorted to a combined sewage overflow into the Milwaukee River, Menomonee River, and Lake Michigan to manage the deep tunnel nearing capacity.

A year later, the region continues its long-term recovery. Drop-off centers for damaged items, which were crucial in the initial cleanup, have long since closed. The Milwaukee Department of Public Works (DPW) had urged residents to report issues via their city services, a system that now serves ongoing infrastructure monitoring. Waukesha County also bore the brunt of the flooding, with pedestrian bridges closed and streets submerged. While some found moments of levity amidst the chaos, like fishing in flooded streets, many faced the heartbreaking reality of losing cherished possessions. The resilience of residents, like Jerry Breske, whose family was rescued by firefighters, underscored the community spirit that emerged during the crisis, prioritizing safety over material loss.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.