Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Streets and low-lying areas could flood quickly by early evening Friday as multiple rounds of thunderstorms move across southern Wisconsin on already saturated ground.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, a flood watch is in effect from 1 p.m. Friday through 7 a.m. Saturday, with rainfall rates exceeding 1 inch per hour possible during stronger storms. Total rainfall of 0.50 to 1.25 inches is expected, with localized totals reaching up to 2 inches, especially in areas west and south of Milwaukee.
Storms are expected to begin developing between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. across western Wisconsin, including areas near La Crosse and Wisconsin Dells, before pushing east toward Madison, Janesville, and the Milwaukee metro. The most intense activity is expected between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., bringing damaging wind gusts over 70 mph, large hail, and a risk of isolated tornadoes.
Major corridors including I-94, I-90, and I-43 could see hazardous travel during peak storm timing, particularly in urban areas where drainage systems may be overwhelmed.
Residents should avoid flooded roadways, charge devices ahead of storms, and have multiple ways to receive warnings. The threat continues overnight, with rising rivers and additional alerts possible into Saturday morning.
