Flooding

Current Lake Conditions

Trace amounts of rain fell this morning, less than expected. Lake Mendota levels are down one inch; meanwhile, Lake Monona has risen two inches. More rain is anticipated tonight. City officials will monitor the weather conditions and their impact on the isthmus. Continue to follow cityofmadison.com/flooding for the latest information.

Important Safety Reminders

If you live in the area at risk of flooding, be cautious with regards to electricity. If your home’s source of power is compromised by water, you will experience a loss of power. Contact your utility service if your building’s power has been compromised.

Remember, do not handle items charged with live electricity near water.

In anticipation of flooding and possible loss of power:

• Move all valuable items out of the basement and lower levels of your house.
• Charge your cell phones while you can, and charge your back-up chargers, too.
• Keep your refrigerator closed so your food doesn't spoil. Do not add to your stock of perishable foods for the next 4-5 days.

Sandbagging Efforts and How To Volunteer

About a dozen work-release inmates provided by the Dane County Sheriff’s Office are filling sandbags. The National Guard has been contacted for additional support. 40,000 sandbags have been filled so far, and more will continue to be filled. Click for sandbag locations.

Traffic Impacts

Traffic flow is compromised in certain areas of the city, particularly where flooding affected the west side as well as on the isthmus. Plan for extra travel time, be patient during your commute, and choose alternate routes, such as Stoughton Road, Monona Drive, and other unaffected thoroughfares.

People are strongly encouraged to minimize the use of their personal vehicles to keep traffic congestion down. Madison Metro will provide free rides throughout the weekend.People who have the ability to work remotely or telecommute are encouraged to do so through Wednesday, 8/29.

Parking

Parking restrictions remain in place on Willy Street. Other parking restrictions have been suspended to accommodate vehicles that need to be moved from the flood risk areas. Public parking garages are available free of charge from 9:00 pm – 7:00 am. Parking in flood-prone areas puts your vehicle’s viability at risk. View the flood risk map and find parking in areas not highlighted in blue.

Find more information about free parking in Madison.

Door Signs Distributed In Flood-Prone Areas

City staff have distributed approximately 1700 notices to households located in the flood risk areas. If you live near the flood risk areas identified on the map and did not receive a notice on your door, it does not mean your property will not flood! The original 1700 addresses were identified as areas of likeliest impact; however, we cannot predict which areas will be impacted if additional rainfall produces more floods.