Madison has been experiencing frequent flooding on main streets and intersections due to recent rainstorms, which city engineers attribute to high lake levels that are straining the infrastructure. Principal Stormwater Engineer Janet Schmidt highlighted the severity of the problem this summer, noting that such significant flooding events usually occur only every five to ten years.
Lake Monona and Lake Mendota are currently above their summer maximum levels set by the Dane County Land & Water Resources Department. On a recent Thursday, Lake Monona was measured at 847.09 feet above sea level, nearly two feet above the limit, while Lake Mendota was more than a foot higher than its summer maximum. These levels are approaching the 1% or 100-Year-Flood levels, last experienced in 2018.
Madison Faces Severe Flooding from High Lake Levels and Summer RainstormsSchmidt noted that the current summer feels similar to the conditions in 2018, with frequent rain leading to high lake levels. An especially severe storm can exacerbate the situation, causing significant flooding. This year, the National Weather Service in Milwaukee has issued 15 Flash Flood Warnings, a notable number compared to the historical high of 52 warnings in 2008.
During the storms on July 14th, residents shared numerous photos of flooded intersections, such as Aberg Ave. and Huxley St., and 1st and E. Johnson, on Channel3000.com and social media. These images highlighted the extent of the flooding and the areas most affected.
Schmidt mentioned that there is little that can be done to prevent such flooding, as the infrastructure cannot handle the excess water. Consequently, water spills over into the streets, sidewalks, and properties, leading to issues like stalled cars and submerged roadways.