Heavy Rain Continues, Urban Flash Flooding Expected, Avoid Flash Flooded Areas

The next few days are expected to have multiple, brief but heavy storm events which may result in urban flash flooding of roadways.  If you encounter a flooded area do not drive through.  

Intense rains of this type can overwhelm the stormwater drainage system resulting in brief (normally < 20 min) flooding of intersections.    

Image credit: Resident submitted photo from Johnson and Third overnight 6/23-6/24

Please do not drive through the water, even if you have a larger SUV/Pickup because the water may have moved sewer access (manhole) covers.  

Flash flooding can occur throughout the City when the stormwater infrastructure cannot convey the amount of water that is falling. 

During a heavy rain we can anticipate that flooding could occur at many locations throughout the City, including the following:  

• East Washington Avenue at N Livingston Street 

• N Livingston Street at E Mifflin Street 

• Third Street at Johnson Street
• Park Street at Pick N Save

• Trailsway at Sherman Avenue 

• High Point Road at Tramore Trail 

Please check your route, and the City Historical Street Flooding Map before your commute or park overnight to avoid areas that are known to flood during flash flood events. 

City crews are cleaning major storm sewer grates at priority locations to keep the system functioning as good as possible when the storms arrive. They’ll continue this work as weather allows throughout this week. Crews are also removing downed trees/limbs from bike paths.  

The City of Madison is monitoring the forecast and will send out any other updates as needed.