Flooding

Overview

We continue to monitor lake levels, as well as the forecast for the upcoming days. Forecasted rain may exacerbate current flooding conditions. Some homeowners and businesses will face possible flooding. 

With street closures underway, we remind people to give themselves extra time when traveling to the east side of the city, especially anyone who has a flight to catch at the Dane County Regional Airport. Allow plenty of additional time.

Precautions for Residents & Businesses in Flood-Risk Areas

People working and residing on the isthmus are asked to take the following 

• Remove valuables from your basement
• Do not park in underground parking
• Move your car from a flood-prone street to higher ground
• Sewage back-up risk can be reduced with the use of a drain plug. If using drain plugs, remember all fixtures in the basement need to be plugged, such as:
  • Toilet
  • Floor drain
  • Sinks
• Acquire and place sandbags around the lowest openings of your house/building
• Watch the weather forecast and monitor City of Madison flood mapping. Plan accordingly to keep yourself, your family, and your means of transportation safe.

Drinking Water Update

At this time, we are able to assure you our water supply is safe, the wells supplying our drinking water are intact and functioning. Madison Water Utility operations have not been affected by flooding. The water is tested every day to ensure its safety. Water is also tested at various points in the distribution system.

The City has one well that could be at risk as waters continue to rise. Water Utility will be sandbagging the municipal well at 101 N. Livingston Street and will shut down the facility Friday as a precaution. The City will rely on other well facilities to supply drinking water to the area. 

Water Utility crews will also be sandbagging the Madison Water Utility Operations Center at 110 S. Paterson Street. The facility does not distribute water. It is the hub for main break, maintenance, and repair crews and equipment.

Sewage-Related Health Concerns 

Staff with Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District have also been working to accommodate the huge influx of rain. Madison Public Health officials are asking that you:

• Treat all floodwaters as contaminated. Stay out of flood and sewage waters.
• Wait until water subsides because there are harmful bacteria and viruses in the water.
• After water and debris has subsided, proper cleanup is important.
• Wear rubber gloves, boots, and eye protection to prevent contaminating yourself with sewage.
• Wash hands thoroughly, and wash clothes separately after finishing cleanup of sewage.

For resources and more information, visit publichealthmdc.com.

Damaged Property

United Way is tracking damage to property in Dane County. If you have suffered property damage, contact United Way at 211 to report it, and also document your losses with your individual insurance provider. Be aware that disaster assistance will most likely not extend to private property. 

Do NOT call 911 to report damaged property. Police are inundated with emergency calls.

The City Streets Division is prepared to promptly remove any flood-damaged items as they are brought to the curb. Place as much as you can in your collection cans; however, the Streets Division will be scouring the flood impacted areas over the coming weeks with additional large item collection crews to collect items brought out to the terrace as well. There are additionally drop off sites at Badger Road and Sycamore.

Check Back For Updates

City staff will continue to update cityofmadison.com/flooding with information as soon as it becomes available. This continues to be the most up-to-date and accurate source of information, and we appreciate everyone’s efforts in sharing this site.