Everything stays private, stored only in your browser.
Set your location on the Wisconsin page to see live conditions for your area.
What's actually likely where you live.
Before the emergency — maps, tools, and the honest picture of what Wisconsin throws at different parts of the state.
See WI hazardsWI hazard profile
Wisconsin blizzards are serious. Lake-effect snow from Lake Superior piles 100+ inches annually in the far north. The February 2011 blizzard dropped 20 inches on Milwaukee in 24 hours. I-90, I-94, and US-51 close multiple times per winter. Wind chills of -30°F to -40°F during Arctic outbreaks are not unusual in northern Wisconsin. Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes per year. The southern third of the state — from La Crosse to Milwaukee — sees the most activity. The August 2018 tornadoes caused widespread damage across Dane and Sauk counties. Spring season (April–June) is peak. Wisconsin tornadoes tend to be weaker than Plains tornadoes but can still be dangerous. The Mississippi, Wisconsin, Rock, and Fox rivers flood regularly. Madison's isthmus geography makes it flood-prone during heavy rain events. The June 2008 flooding caused over $750 million in damage statewide. Spring snowmelt combined with heavy rain is the most dangerous combination for river flooding.
Ice accumulation causes prolonged power outages and road closures across the state.
Read the full guide →
Occur across most of the state, often embedded in severe thunderstorm lines and tropical systems.
Read the full guide →
Flash floods, river flooding, and coastal surge affect low-lying areas and river corridors.
Read the full guide →
Dry conditions, wind, and vegetation combine to create serious wildfire risk, particularly in dry seasons.
Read the full guide →
Official tools
Enter your address to see your flood zone designation and insurance requirements.
Source: FEMA
Real-time earthquake activity and seismic hazard maps for your region.
Source: USGS
Your property's wildfire exposure score based on vegetation, terrain, and proximity to wildland.
Source: USFS
Real-time river levels and flood stage by county.
Source: USGS WaterWatch
Weekly drought conditions by county.
Source: US Drought Monitor
Water quality guidance for households on private wells.
Source: EPA
Insurance gaps
Standard homeowner's policies in Wisconsin exclude flood damage. Flood insurance through the NFIP has a 30-day waiting period — it cannot be purchased when a storm is forecast. Check your declarations page annually to confirm your coverage limits and deductibles.
Not in your standard policy
Flood damage — requires NFIP or private flood policy
Earthquake damage — requires separate endorsement
Sewer & drain backup — requires endorsement ($50–$100/yr)
Landslide / mudflow — generally excluded
Next steps
During an emergency
NC emergency contacts, alert signups, and real-time information.
Local EmergencyGet prepared
Step-by-step actions based on the hazards that apply to Wisconsin.
WI Checklists