Severe Storms Strike Southeastern Wisconsin experienced a night of intense weather as severe storms swept through the region overnight of Friday, September 12, 2025, into Saturday, September 13, 2025, leaving behind damage and widespread power outages. The National Weather Service (NWS) had issued severe thunderstorm warnings for several counties, alerting residents to the potential for damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and isolated instances of large hail, according to Wisconsin Weather Watch News.
Overnight Storm Aftermath
The storms, characterized by powerful winds and torrential rain, moved across the area, causing significant disruption. Residents across Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, and Kenosha counties were among the hardest hit, though impacts were felt across much of Southeastern Wisconsin, as reported by Wisconsin Weather Watch News. The primary impact included numerous downed trees and power lines, significant power outages, and localized flash flooding in low-lying areas. Some areas also experienced hail, with isolated reports of larger-sized hailstones.
Widespread Power Outages
Tens of thousands of WE Energies customers experienced power outages as strong winds brought down power lines. WE Energies crews worked through the night and into Saturday morning to restore power. The utility company has not yet released exact numbers of affected customers, but the scale of the outages indicates a significant impact on the region’s power infrastructure.
Flash Flooding and Road Closures
Torrential rain led to localized flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. Local authorities urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel due to blocked roads and standing water, emphasizing the “turn around, don’t drown” message for flooded areas. Specific communities reported significant tree damage and flooded roadways, according to initial reports. The extent of the flooding is still being assessed, but early indications suggest that several roads remain impassable.
Hail Damage Reports
In addition to wind and rain, some areas experienced hail. While most reports indicated small to medium-sized hail, there were isolated reports of larger-sized hailstones. The full extent of hail damage is still being determined, but it is likely to include damage to vehicles, roofs, and crops.
National Weather Service Warnings
The National Weather Service (NWS) played a crucial role in preparing residents for the severe weather event. The NWS had issued severe thunderstorm warnings for several counties, alerting residents to the potential for damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and isolated instances of large hail. These warnings were issued in the hours leading up to the storms, advising residents to prepare for the deteriorating conditions. According to the NWS, the storms were triggered by a potent weather system, likely a cold front interacting with warm, moist air over the region, which created an unstable atmosphere conducive to severe thunderstorm development.
Emergency Response and Recovery
Emergency crews worked through the night and into Saturday morning to clear debris from roadways and restore power. Local authorities urged residents to report outages and non-emergency damage to appropriate channels. Damage assessments are ongoing, with residents advised to report outages and non-emergency damage to appropriate channels. The response involved a coordinated effort between local emergency services, utility crews from companies like WE Energies, and meteorologists from the National Weather Service.
Safety Precautions and Recommendations
Following the storms, authorities are urging residents to take necessary safety precautions. These include avoiding downed power lines, reporting power outages to WE Energies, and avoiding travel in flooded areas. Residents are also advised to document any damage for insurance purposes. The “turn around, don’t drown” message remains critical for areas with standing water.
Looking Ahead
As Southeastern Wisconsin begins the recovery process, the focus is on restoring power, clearing debris, and assessing the full extent of the damage. The National Weather Service will continue to monitor weather patterns and provide updates as needed. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The overnight storms serve as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and the potential impact of severe weather events.
