Full Breakdown
Wisconsin Sets New 24-Hour Precipitation Record Amid Severe Flooding
12/20/2025, 8:57:31 PM
Record-Breaking Rainfall Event
On August 9-10, 2025, southeast Wisconsin experienced severe thunderstorms that resulted in widespread flash flooding. The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District recorded an unprecedented 14.55 inches of rainfall at James Madison High School in Northwest Milwaukee, marking a new 24-hour precipitation record for the state. This record was confirmed by the State Climate Extremes Committee, which includes representatives from the National Weather Service (NWS) Milwaukee/Sullivan, the Midwestern Regional Climate Center, the Wisconsin State Climate Office, and the National Centers for Environmental Information.
The previous record of 11.72 inches was set on June 24, 1946, near Mellen, Wisconsin, in Ashland County. The rainfall at James Madison High School was measured from 5 PM on August 9 to 1:50 PM on August 10, with the majority of precipitation occurring between 6 PM and 3 AM. Rainfall rates during this period reached between 1 to 3 inches per hour, contributing to significant flooding across the region.
Impact and Response
The heavy rainfall led to extensive flooding in various areas, prompting school and business closures throughout southeast Wisconsin. The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District's rain gauge, which measures precipitation in five-minute increments, played a crucial role in documenting this record-setting event. Radar estimates indicated that rainfall totals across northwest Milwaukee ranged from 10 to 13 inches, further underscoring the severity of the storm.
The State Climate Extremes Committee convened on December 11, 2025, and unanimously voted to confirm the new precipitation record, solidifying its place in Wisconsin's meteorological history.
Criticism & Opposition
While the record-setting rainfall has been acknowledged, some local residents and experts have raised concerns about the implications of such extreme weather events. Critics argue that increasing instances of severe flooding may be linked to broader climate change trends, which could lead to more frequent and intense storms in the future. This perspective highlights the need for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness to mitigate the impacts of similar events.
Verbatim Quotes
- “9-10, 2025 flooding in northwest Milwaukee is now the state's 24-hour precipitation record.” — State Climate Extremes Committee
- “Rainfall rates were estimated at 1–3 inches per hour over several hours.” — National Weather Service
What's Next
Following this record-breaking event, local authorities are expected to assess the damage and implement strategies to enhance flood resilience in the region. Continued monitoring of weather patterns and infrastructure improvements will be critical in addressing the challenges posed by extreme weather in Wisconsin.
