OUR VIEW: 1 foot of rain is scary scenario for Madison
madison.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 7:58:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Foreign Policy & International Relations
What happens if more than a foot of rain pounds Madison?
That's the scary proposition climate change poses, following the historic deluge in southeast Wisconsin last weekend. More than 12 inches of rain fell on parts of Menomonee Falls, Pewaukee and Butler in Waukesha County, while nearly a foot hit parts of Milwaukee, according to the National Weather Service.
The torrential downpour flooded roads and basements across the region and turned the Wisconsin State Fair into a "lake," according to witnesses. Four rivers rose to record heights, including the Milwaukee River, which was 4 feet over flood level.
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Luckily, no one died. But untold millions of dollars in property damage resulted, with too little insurance for many of the worst hit people.
(Madison got 2.35 inches of rain -- enough to cancel community events.)
This isn't a new threat. In 2018, as much as 10 inches fell on Madison's West Side, drowning a man who was swept away from his stuck car. In 2008, 14 inches of rain caused Lake Delton in Sauk County to breach and wash away -- along with several homes.
What's different about our climate in recent decades are more frequent bursts of rain caused by warmer, moister air. All 10 of the world's warmest years on record were the most recent 10 years, according to the World Meteorological Organization. This disturbing trend creates uncertainty for public health and the economy, including Wisconsin's agriculture and tourism industries.
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Yet too many of Wisconsin's elected officials -- mostly Republicans -- ignore or dismiss the growing challenge.
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That has to change. More prevention is definitely needed. The public and private sectors must speed their pursuits of clean energy to dramatically reduce the burning of fossil fuel. Coal, gasoline and natural gas emit the greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere.
Local officials say they're doing a lot to prepare for a more chaotic climate. After the 2018 downpour in Madison, they removed aquatic plants from the Yahara River that clogged water flow. The county also is dredging parts of the river, which runs through Madison, to better control lake levels.
Yet every Wisconsin community is vulnerable to heavier and longer downpours, as the damage to Milwaukee and its western suburbs shows.
Most homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood damage, according to the state insurance commissioner. And less than 1% of Wisconsin's 2.7 million households have federal flood insurance, which accounts for most flood policies. Securing private flood insurance can be challenging and expensive.
State and federal leaders -- especially Republicans -- must do more to protect their constituents. Unfortunately, President Donald Trump is pulling his supposedly conservative party in the opposite direction, pretending nothing is wrong and prioritizing fossil fuel production.
That's a grave mistake, especially for our children and grandchildren.
Extreme rainfall and expensive disasters are on the rise in Wisconsin, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. With the Trump administration now in charge, the agency's website indicates it is no longer updating some of its Wisconsin data due to "evolving priorities."
Ignoring climate change won't make it go away. Neither will the Trump administration's talk of dismantling the Federal Emergency Management Agency, from which Gov. Tony Evers is seeking disaster aid for Milwaukee area residents.
Voters must respond in the midterm elections next year by prioritizing the climate challenge and the politicians who take it seriously. Madison and Wisconsin must strive to prevent -- and prepare for -- the worst.
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Sign Our PetitionThe recent deluge that struck southeast Wisconsin, including Madison, serves as a sobering reminder of the escalating consequences of climate change. With over a foot of rain inundating parts of the region, the devastation was not merely an unfortunate weather event but an alarming signal of the climate crisis that is increasingly reshaping our environment and lives. This unprecedented rainfall, which led to flooding that turned familiar landmarks into makeshift lakes, serves as a stark illustration of a broader trend that has been gaining momentum over the past few decades. As climate scientists have long warned, the enhanced frequency and intensity of extreme weather events can be traced back to human-induced climate change—a reality that continues to be downplayed or outright dismissed by a significant segment of our political leadership.
To understand the current ramifications of this weather event, one must consider the historical context of climate change and its political implications. The last century has seen a remarkable increase in carbon emissions, primarily fueled by industrialization and fossil fuel dependence. This trajectory has been exacerbated by a political landscape that has favored corporate interests over environmental stewardship, leading to a systematic neglect of climate policies that could mitigate the impending crisis. The Republican leadership in Wisconsin, as noted in the article, has been particularly notorious for obstructing meaningful climate action. This is a pattern not isolated to Wisconsin; rather, it reflects a national trend where environmental logic is often sacrificed at the altar of economic expediency, with devastating consequences for communities already vulnerable to climate-related disasters.
The impact of such weather events extends beyond immediate property damage and economic loss. As we grapple with the reality of increasingly volatile weather, we must also consider the long-term implications for public health. Flooding can lead to waterborne diseases, increased allergens, and respiratory issues—problems that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Furthermore, as climate change exacerbates existing inequalities, it becomes imperative to advocate for policies that prioritize social justice in environmental planning. The communities hardest hit by flooding are often those with the least resources to recover, revealing systemic inequities that require urgent redress.
Moreover, the connection between climate change and economic stability cannot be overstated. Wisconsin’s agriculture and tourism industries, both essential components of the state’s economy, are profoundly vulnerable to climate fluctuations. The torrential rains experienced in recent weeks disrupt agricultural cycles, threaten food security, and compromise livelihoods. Similarly, businesses reliant on tourism face an uncertain future as extreme weather patterns alter the landscapes that attract visitors. A collective response that prioritizes climate resilience not only serves as a proactive measure to safeguard these industries but also as an avenue for economic innovation that could foster job creation in renewable energy sectors.
As concerned citizens and advocates, it is crucial to leverage these current events as a catalyst for dialogue and action. Engaging with those who may not yet recognize the urgency of climate change can be a powerful tool. Sharing the stories of those impacted by flooding and connecting them to broader systemic issues can help illuminate the intersectionality of climate justice and social equity. This dialogue should highlight the need for comprehensive climate policies that encompass sustainable practices, equitable economic opportunities, and robust public health frameworks. The fight against climate change is not just an environmental struggle; it is a social justice imperative that requires collective action and a commitment to transforming our political landscape. Only through a united front can we confront the looming threats posed by climate change and work toward a sustainable and just future for all.
The recent deluge in Wisconsin serves as a stark reminder of the escalating climate crisis that is transforming our environment in profound and often dangerous ways. With areas experiencing record rainfall and devastating floods, the implications for public safety, infrastructure, and local economies are alarming. Historical patterns of weather events have shifted dramatically, illustrating that climate change is not a distant threat, but a present reality that communities must grapple with. The urgency of addressing these challenges cannot be overstated, and it is vital that we demand accountability from our leadership while advocating for proactive measures to mitigate further damage.
The data supporting the climate crisis is irrefutable. The National Weather Service’s reports indicate that the recent storms are part of a troubling trend, with warmer air holding more moisture, leading to extreme weather events like the heavy rain experienced in southeastern Wisconsin. This is consistent with global patterns observed over the last few decades where increased temperatures have resulted in more intense and frequent storms. The phenomenon is not just an anomaly; it signifies a systemic threat to public health and safety, as well as to industries that rely on stable weather patterns, such as agriculture and tourism. As citizens, we must recognize that these events are interconnected with broader climate dynamics and hold our elected officials accountable for their inaction.
Historically, the debate around climate change has been polarized, with many politicians, particularly those aligned with conservative ideologies, dismissing the urgency of the matter. This resistance to acknowledge the realities of climate change has dire consequences for communities like Madison, where infrastructure is increasingly incapable of coping with heavy rains. Many elected officials fail to grasp that disaster preparedness is not simply about responding to crises but also about investing in sustainable solutions that will protect our communities in the long run. This is a critical point to emphasize when engaging in discussions with those who may downplay climate issues: the need for proactive investment in infrastructure and policy reform is a nonpartisan necessity.
What can we, as engaged citizens, do about this? First, it’s essential to support initiatives that advocate for sustainable environmental policies at the local, state, and federal levels. This means voting for candidates who prioritize climate action and challenging those who do not. Furthermore, grassroots movements can mobilize our communities to demand accountability from local government officials who fail to address climate change seriously. Engaging with local organizations that promote climate resilience, investing in renewable energy sources, and supporting local agriculture can also help build a more sustainable future. The more we educate ourselves and others about the impact of climate change, the stronger our collective voice will be.
Lastly, it is crucial to foster a culture of awareness and education around climate issues. The more we communicate the realities of climate change and its local impacts, the more we empower ourselves and others to take action. Discussions about climate resilience should not be relegated to scientific circles alone; they need to permeate community forums, school curriculums, and public discourse. Utilizing social media platforms to share information, engaging in community dialogues, and organizing educational events can amplify our voices and enhance understanding. In doing so, we create a network of informed citizens who can advocate for a comprehensive approach to climate change—one that acknowledges the urgency of the crisis and the need for immediate and decisive action.
In conclusion, the recent flooding in Wisconsin is a reflection of the ongoing climate crisis that demands our attention and action. The historical context, data supporting the urgency of the matter, and the need for community engagement provide us with a strong foundation to advocate for meaningful change. By fostering awareness, holding our leaders accountable, and mobilizing for sustainable solutions, we can work towards ensuring that our communities not only survive but thrive in the face of this daunting challenge.
In light of the alarming weather events described in the article, there are several actions individuals can take to address climate change and support more sustainable practices in their communities. Here is a detailed list of ideas:
### Personal Actions to Combat Climate Change
1. **Educate Yourself and Others** - Read books, watch documentaries, and attend local seminars about climate change. - Share knowledge with friends, family, and community members through discussions or social media.
2. **Support Local Environmental Organizations** - Join or donate to organizations like the Sierra Club, 350.org, or local environmental groups working for climate justice. - Participate in local clean-up efforts or tree planting days organized by these groups.
3. **Advocate for Policy Change** - Write letters to your elected officials urging them to take action on climate change and support policies that promote sustainability.
### Specific Actions
#### Petition Initiatives 1. **Sign or Create Petitions** - Use platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org to find existing petitions focused on climate action. - Create a petition addressing local issues, such as improving flood defenses or investing in green infrastructure.
2. **Example Petition** - Petition for a Climate Action Plan in Madison: A petition could aim to push local government to adopt a comprehensive climate action plan that includes flood mitigation strategies. - **Link**: Visit Change.org or similar platforms to create or find such petitions.
#### Contacting Elected Officials 1. **Identify Key Officials** - Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway - Email: mayor@cityofmadison.com - Mailing Address: 210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Room 403, Madison, WI 53703
- Wisconsin State Senator Melissa Agard - Email: Sen.Agard@legis.wisconsin.gov - Mailing Address: P.O. Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707
- U.S. Representative Mark Pocan - Email: mark.pocan@mail.house.gov - Mailing Address: 10 East Doty St., Suite 402, Madison, WI 53703
2. **What to Say** - In your communication, clearly express your concerns about climate change and recent flooding events. - Request specific actions, such as: - Investment in green infrastructure (e.g., permeable pavements, rain gardens). - Development of more robust flood management strategies. - Support for renewable energy projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
#### Community Engagement 1. **Organize Community Events** - Host a community meeting to discuss climate change impacts and potential local solutions. - Partner with local schools or organizations to create awareness campaigns.
2. **Volunteer for Local Initiatives** - Look for opportunities with local nonprofits focused on climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, or environmental stewardship.
3. **Participate in Local Government Meetings** - Attend city council meetings and voice concerns about climate policies, asking questions about current and future environmental initiatives.
### Advocacy Through Social Media 1. **Raise Awareness Online** - Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to share informative content about climate change. - Create posts or stories that highlight the importance of climate action and share your personal experiences or initiatives.
### Conclusion By taking these actions, we can collectively work towards addressing the urgent issue of climate change and its impacts on our communities. Engaging with local officials, participating in advocacy, and fostering community awareness are crucial steps in driving the necessary change. Together, we can make a difference in creating a more sustainable and resilient future.