Flood Outlook will be issued March 12, 2026 or earlier if the risk is elevated
Key Points
- The risk of spring flooding is xxx
- The spring flood risk is based on the following factors: xxx
- This flood risk pertains to the underlying risk for the mid March to the mid June time period as a whole. The risk may be higher with individual weather events. Flooding is still possible with heavy rain.
- River flooding in southern Wisconsin typically occurs in March and April when there is a rapid snowmelt and/or heavy rain, but it can happen any time of the year.
What Has Changed
Briefing Slides

Seasonal Flood Outlook Graphics (select site on map, select 'Full Gauge Page' on top of hydrograph, then scroll down)
Flood Risk Factors
Current Conditions (some images auto update and conditions may differ from when the spring flood outlook was issued)



Looking Ahead (images auto update and may differ from when the outlook was issued)
| 7 Day Precipitation Forecast |
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Extended outlooks from the Climate Prediction Center:
How To Prepare & Safety
Preparedness/Early Actions:
- Get a NOAA Weather Radio to be alerted to flash flood warnings and river flood warnings
- Monitor weather forecasts for heavy rain potential
- Have a communications plan for your family and a place to meet in higher ground.
- Monitor river levels and forecasted river levels online: (National Site, USGS, MKX)
- Know a safe way to exit your home and neighborhood and avoid any roads susceptible to flooding
- Prepare your home:
- Consider flood insurance, especially if you are in a flood prone area - (may require 30 day notice)
- Make sure your sump pump is working and consider a backup.
- Have a professional install check-values to prevent floodwaters from backing up into the drains of your home
- Keep important documents in a waterproof, elevated container, not in the basement.
- Remove snow from roof, downspout area, and away from base of home
- Finish any outdoor projects that may be affected by heavy rain or flood waters
- Prepare (Flood Ready, Flood Safety)
How To Stay Safe During a Flood:
- Heed evacuation orders and evacuate your home if it is at risk
- Turn Around, Don't Drown - never drive through flooded roads
- You do not know how deep the water is or if the road has been washed out
- You may damage your vehicle
- You put yourself and first responders at risk
If you have any questions or comments about this spring flood outlook or river forecasts please contact:
Sarah Marquardt
Senior Service Hydrologist
National Weather Service Milwaukee
sarah.marquardt@noaa.gov
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