Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley declared a state of emergency in response to heavy rainfall and flooding across the county, saying in an afternoon message Aug. 10 "flooding is still an active emergency situation" in communities across the county.
"Our top priority is the life and safety of Milwaukee County residents,” Crowley said. “I strongly urge our residents to stay cautious, stay informed, and refrain from traveling. Check in on your neighbors and loved ones, especially older adults, and seek out emergency assistance if needed."
The emergency declaration listed a range of threats from the recent torrential rains, with the possibility of more storms in the short-term forecast. The downpours have overwhelmed drainage systems and damaged, homes, businesses, roads and parks, and lightning strikes and downed tree branches have caused additional damage.
"The proclamation of an emergency empowers emergency management personnel to deploy additional resources, activate state and federal partners to assist with our efforts on the ground, and help people as swiftly as possible," the county said in announcing Crowley's action.
Also Aug. 10, Gov. Tony Evers announced he had authorized Wisconsin National Guard resources to assist local officials in Milwaukee County respond to the flooding and its aftermath.
"We are continuing to monitor flooding, especially as several counties continue to remain under flash flood warnings," Evers said in social media posts about the disaster. "My office has been in contact with local officials throughout the day today to offer state assistance wherever we can. I want to thank all of the emergency and first responders and local officials who’ve been working around the clock to respond."
Get additional Tosa Forward News coverage of the 2025 flood here.
