Portage WI Flooding: Residents Battle Renewed Storm Damage
Milwaukee’s south side residents are once again grappling with the aftermath of severe flooding following recent storms. Homes and businesses are taking on water just months after historic rainfall in August, with more inclement weather on the horizon. The situation in Portage WI, and surrounding areas, highlights the increasing challenges of urban flooding and the need for comprehensive solutions.
Recurring Flooding Impacts South Milwaukee
Recent storms have brought a disheartening return of flooding to parts of Milwaukee, causing fresh damage in neighborhoods still recovering from the devastating floods of last August. Along South Fulton Street in Bay View, residents were seen Thursday night discarding water-damaged belongings from their basements. While the current damage isn’t as extensive as last year’s, the frustration is palpable.
Residents are actively working to mitigate the damage, purchasing dehumidifiers and fans in anticipation of further rainfall. The intersection of Howell and Oklahoma, submerged Wednesday night, saw a business flooded once again.
Businesses and Homeowners Struggle with Persistent Issues
Michael Arenas, an insurance agent with Reilly’s Insurance Services, expressed a sense of weary familiarity. “We’re kind of used to it over so many years,” he stated, noting that flooding has become an almost annual occurrence, consistently impacting the building’s basement. He pointed to window seals that had been forced out by the force of the floodwaters. “We even had some of these windows sealed up over here, and the flood actually pushed these out pretty good… they pushed them out pretty good, and put all these leaves and stuff down here from the window wells.”
Approximately a mile away, homeowner Allison Gipp detailed the losses she faced after water infiltrated her basement. “Boxes, a TV, luggage, you know, wrapping paper and toilet paper,” she listed. The situation was compounded by sewage backup through her floor drain, reaching a height of about three inches. “They’re saying, ‘Well, our biggest priority is not to have sewage in people’s basements.’ Well… This is what keeps happening,” Gipp lamented.
August Flooding and Ongoing Concerns
In August, Gipp’s basement experienced approximately three feet of water. While the current cleanup is less extensive, she fears further storms will necessitate more work. “Hopefully it doesn’t happen again,” she said. “Hopefully, if it does, it’s not worse.” Gipp is currently delaying a full basement cleanup, anticipating the possibility of additional flooding.
City Response and Future Preparedness
Milwaukee leaders acknowledge that the sheer volume of water makes preventing localized street flooding exceptionally difficult. However, ongoing discussions are focusing on infrastructure improvements and long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of future storms. Understanding the complexities of urban drainage systems is crucial, as highlighted by the Environmental Protection Agency’s resources on green infrastructure.
This situation underscores the importance of proactive flood preparedness, including securing flood insurance and implementing preventative measures around homes and businesses. Resources like the FloodSmart.gov website offer valuable information and guidance.
Source: This information was collected and produced by FOX6 News.
