Wisconsin Homeowners Face Rising Flood Risks as Climate Change Transforms Weather Patterns

Wisconsin is experiencing a dramatic shift in weather patterns that’s putting homeowners at unprecedented risk of flooding. This past year was officially the warmest year on record (since 1895) for Wisconsin, with a statewide average temperature of 47.6 degrees (Fahrenheit) — 3.8 degrees above the 1991 to 2020 normal, and the state’s changing climate is creating perfect conditions for more frequent and severe flooding events.

The Climate Change Connection

Flooding is projected to become more common in Wisconsin as the climate changes. The evidence is already mounting across the state. In most of the Midwest, average annual precipitation has increased by 5 to 10% during the previous half-century. However, rainfall has increased by nearly 35% on the four wettest days of the year. This dramatic increase in extreme precipitation events is creating conditions that overwhelm drainage systems and put homes at risk.

Spring rainfall and yearly precipitation are predicted to rise during the next century, and violent rainstorms are anticipated to worsen. Each of these conditions will exacerbate the likelihood of flooding. Wisconsin residents have already witnessed this firsthand, with August 9, torrential downpours caused the worst flash flooding event in southeast Wisconsin since 2008.

Recent Flooding Events Highlight Growing Risks

The August 2025 flooding in southeastern Wisconsin serves as a stark reminder of the new reality homeowners face. Widespread rainfall totals from August 9 to 10 ranged from five to ten inches in those counties. One location on the northwest side of Milwaukee reported a 24-hour rain total of 14.5 inches. The impact was devastating: The Milwaukee Fire Department responded to over 600 calls between Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley announced a State of Emergency for Milwaukee County, and Governor Tony Evers approved National Guard assistance in the county, subsequently declaring a State of Emergency.

Short-lived but intense rainfall events in July caused flash flooding, a dam breach in Waupaca County, and a state of emergency declaration in four counties. On July 14, Madison set a record for rainfall intensity, when 2.23 inches fell in one hour. The city was struck again two months later with nearly four inches of rainfall on September 21, becoming Madison’s wettest September day on record.

The Insurance Coverage Gap

One of the most shocking realities for Wisconsin homeowners is discovering that their standard insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. Most standard homeowners insurance policies exclude flood damage. Coverage for flooding is usually only available through separate National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies. This leaves many families financially vulnerable when disaster strikes.

The financial impact can be staggering. One inch of water can cause up to $25,000 in damage, so even small or moderate floods can be financially devastating if you don’t have the right insurance. In Wisconsin, only about 10,000 people have policies through the National Flood Insurance Program, leaving hundreds of thousands of homeowners exposed to flood risks.

What’s particularly concerning is that 40% of FEMA-managed flood claims come from people who live outside of a FEMA-designated flood plain, meaning flooding can happen anywhere, not just in traditionally recognized flood zones.

When Disaster Strikes: The Importance of Professional Response

When flooding occurs, time is critical. More intense and frequent heavy rains due to climate change can result in flooding, eroding soil and coastlines, washing out roads and bridges, breaking dams, overwhelming sewers and wastewater treatment plants and causing greater algae blooms, bodily harm and illness. Professional water damage restoration becomes essential to prevent secondary damage like mold growth and structural deterioration.

For Wisconsin homeowners facing flood damage, having access to reliable emergency flood services near me can make the difference between a manageable restoration and a total loss. Professional restoration companies understand that rapid response time, which is typically under 60 minutes for emergency calls. 24/7 availability ensures that we’re there when you need us most. Prompt action is crucial in minimizing damage, so you can count on us to arrive quickly and begin the restoration process.

Protecting Your Home and Family

Wisconsin homeowners need to take proactive steps to protect themselves from increasing flood risks. First, consider purchasing flood insurance before you need it. There is a 30-day waiting period for an NFIP policy to take effect, so waiting until a storm is forecast is too late.

Second, understand that flooding is not only caused by rising levels in lakes and streams, it is also caused by broken water mains, blocked drainage systems, rapid snow melt (particularly when the ground is still frozen), periods of heavy rain in a short amount of time and ice jams. This means flood risk exists throughout Wisconsin, regardless of proximity to rivers or lakes.

Finally, have a restoration plan in place. At Flood Guys, we are a trusted restoration company dedicated to helping you recover from water, fire, and mold damage. Our experienced professionals use advanced technology to deliver tailored services, ensuring a seamless and efficient restoration process every step of the way.

The Future of Wisconsin Weather

Climate scientists project that Wisconsin’s weather will continue to become more extreme. Along with the increased precipitation and flooding, there will be more frequent and severe storms across the state of Wisconsin. As the weather becomes warmer and wetter, flood risk is likely to rise as well, as the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts reports. The state has already seen an increase in extreme rainfall in recent decades, and the biggest storms are poised to see the biggest upticks.

The challenge is clear: The weather’s changing faster than we can build. Wisconsin homeowners must adapt by understanding their flood risks, securing appropriate insurance coverage, and having trusted restoration professionals ready to respond when disaster strikes. As climate change continues to reshape Wisconsin’s weather patterns, preparation and professional response capabilities will be the keys to protecting homes and families from the growing threat of flooding.