Madison Reporter

City of Madison staff are monitoring incoming storms expected to move into the area this afternoon and throughout the weekend. Current forecasts do not anticipate a major flooding event, but flash flooding in isolated locations remains a possibility, especially during intense rainfall. Engineering crews have been clearing debris from inlets in priority locations to ensure City storm sewers function optimally ahead of the storms.

Residents experiencing flooding or needing to report missing or ajar manhole covers should call 608-266-4430. This will allow the City to triage calls and prioritize its response. Blocked inlets can be reported through the City’s Report a Problem portal, which will not be monitored during the storms but provides helpful information for proactive planning and maintenance.

Dane County is under a flood watch, indicating conditions favorable for flooding. While it does not mean flooding will occur, it is possible. Flash flooding can occur anywhere throughout the City if stormwater infrastructure cannot drain runoff quickly enough.

The City encourages residents to avoid low-lying areas known to flood during heavy rain events. Encountering roads with standing water should prompt drivers to turn around and avoid flooded areas.

For those wishing to fill sandbags as a precaution, the City's sand sites are open and available as they are regularly during the season. Free sand and ready-to-fill bags are available at several locations for City residents:

- Engineering Service Building: 1600 Emil Street

- Olbrich Park Secondary Boat Launch Parking Lot: 3402 Atwood Avenue

- Olin Park Parking Lot: 1156 Olin-Turville Court

- Spring Harbor Park Parking Lot: 5417 Lake Mendota Drive

- Tenney Park Beach Parking Lot: 1254 Sherman Avenue

- Thut Park: 2630 Nana Way

- Warner Park Beach Parking Lot: 1101 Woodward Drive

Residents can sign up for flooding updates, view the sand location map, and learn more about flooding on the City's website.