Flash flooding cancels events, sets record river levels in Wisconsin
Flash flooding forced evacuations in southeastern Wisconsin. The National Weather Service warned on Sunday, Aug. 10, of torrential downpours adding to the current high water situation.
The water reached record levels along the Milwaukee River with a crest of 11.19 feet. It hit 10.48 back in July of 2010.
No injuries have been reported as a result of the storms.
Forecasters in the region called the rainfall levels historic. As a result, thousands are without power, and a multitude of streets remain impassable. The Red Cross opened shelters throughout the area for those with flooded homes.
The Wisconsin State Fair closed early on Saturday,Aug. 9, out of safety concerns and remained that way on Sunday.
“We understand the disappointment you may feel as our team works all year for these 11 days,” fair officials posted on social media. “However, the safety of our Fairgoers, team, partners and vendors will always be our top priority.”
Aug. 10 marked the final day of the fair.
“We are saddened we cannot deliver this final day of the Wisconsin State Fair, but know that this is the best decision with current conditions and the forecast ahead,” the statement concluded.
USA Triathlon was forced to cancel the remainder of its national championships because of the floods.
“Unfortunately, in partnership with the city of Milwaukee and with local authorities, emergency services and our safety teams, together we determined that the combination of potential water conditions, flooding and course damage throughout the course, limited emergency response teams to support the event, as well as impending weather for Sunday, makes it impossible for us to safely hold Sunday’s Paratriathlon and Sprint Distance National Championships,” the organization posted.
As of now, the Milwaukee Brewers game versus the New York Mets is scheduled to go on as planned. However, many roads around American Family Field are closed due to flooding.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
