Hurricanes risk in Wisconsin

Hurricane Risk in Wisconsin: What to Know

Wisconsin is located in the Midwest, far from the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, so the chance of a hurricane making direct landfall here is virtually zero. The state is rated level 1 out of 5 for hurricane risk in FEMA's National Risk Index, meaning the expected annual loss from hurricane winds is very low. However, that does not mean Wisconsin is completely immune to the effects of tropical cyclones.

During the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30, tropical storms and hurricanes sometimes move north after weakening over land. By the time they reach the Upper Midwest, they are typically classified as remnants or post-tropical cyclones. These systems bring moisture, heavy rain, and strong gusts, and they can produce flash flooding, river flooding, and even isolated tornadoes. The most likely months for these remnant storms to affect Wisconsin are August, September, and October, when the tropical Atlantic is most active.

Areas most exposed to hurricane-related flooding in Wisconsin include low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and lakes, as well as urban areas with poor drainage. Western and southern Wisconsin often experience the heaviest rainfall from remnant systems that track northward from the Gulf or Ohio Valley. Inland flooding is the primary hazard—not hurricane-force winds, which are rare this far north. Still, a storm's remnants can bring damaging gusts of 40–60 mph, enough to knock down trees and power lines.

How It Affects Homes

When hurricane remnants reach Wisconsin, the main threat to homes is flooding. Heavy rain can overwhelm storm drains, saturate the ground, and cause basements to seep or fill with water. Homes near rivers or on poor drainage slopes face the highest risk of flood damage, which is often not covered by standard homeowners insurance. Flood insurance, available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), is a separate policy that covers structural and content damage from rising water. Even in a low-risk state like Wisconsin, flood insurance can be a wise investment, especially if you live in a floodplain or have a basement.

Wind damage from residual tropical storms is less likely but still possible. Tornadoes spawned by these systems can cause severe roof, siding, and window damage. Standard homeowners policies usually cover wind and tornado damage, but you should review your policy and understand your deductible for wind-related claims. Power outages from fallen trees or high winds can also disrupt heating, well pumps, and sump pumps, leading to secondary water damage in basements if your pump loses power.

Another subtle effect is prolonged humidity and dampness after a storm, which can encourage mold growth in homes already affected by minor water intrusion. Homeowners should dry out flooded areas quickly, remove soaked carpets, and sanitize affected surfaces to prevent health issues.

How to Prepare Your Home

Even though Wisconsin’s hurricane risk is low, preparation is simple and can protect your home from any severe storm. Follow these steps:

• Check your drainage: Keep gutters and downspouts clear so water flows away from your foundation. Extend downspouts at least 5 feet from your house.
• Install a sump pump: If your home has a basement, ensure your sump pump works and consider adding a battery backup so it operates during power outages.
• Waterproof your basement: Use sealant on walls and floors, and install a backflow valve to prevent sewer water from entering during heavy rains.
• Secure outdoor items: Bring in patio furniture, grills, and children’s toys that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Trim trees: Cut back dead branches near your home to reduce the chance of them falling on your roof.
• Document your belongings: Take a video or photo inventory of your possessions, and keep important documents in a waterproof safe.
• Know your flood risk: Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to see if your property lies in a special flood hazard area.
• Review your insurance: Talk to your agent about adding flood insurance and confirm your wind coverage limits. Consider replacement cost coverage for your home and contents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has a hurricane ever directly hit Wisconsin?

No hurricane has ever made landfall in Wisconsin. Because the state is separated from the ocean by hundreds of miles, by the time a storm reaches Wisconsin, it has lost its tropical characteristics. However, the remnants of several hurricanes, such as the storm systems that caused major flooding in the Midwest in past decades, have brought heavy rain and tornadoes to the state. These events are rare but possible.

Do I need flood insurance if I live in Wisconsin?

Flooding can happen anywhere, and Wisconsin has experienced severe floods from inland rainfall, including events caused by tropical moisture. Standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage, so a separate flood insurance policy is the only way to be covered. Even if you are not in a high-risk flood zone, consider flood insurance because low-risk areas still account for a significant share of flood claims. Your insurance agent can help you determine if it makes sense for your property.

What should I do when a hurricane remnant is forecast for Wisconsin?

Monitor local weather forecasts from the National Weather Service and heed any flood watches or warnings. If flooding is expected, move valuables to higher floors, clear your gutters, and ensure your sump pump is working. Keep a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries on hand. Avoid driving through flooded roads, as just six inches of moving water can knock a person down or stall a car. For more detailed guidance, visit Ready.gov/hurricanes.

Official Resources

• Wisconsin Emergency Management – Get state-specific preparedness and alert information.
• NOAA National Hurricane Center – Access the latest tropical storm forecasts and advisories.
• Ready.gov – Hurricanes – Learn how to prepare, respond, and recover from hurricanes and tropical storms.
• FEMA Hurricane Preparedness – Understand federal flood maps, risk assessments, and mitigation strategies.