How much has FEMA paid for the August flood in Wisconsin?

As of January 6, 2026, FEMA has paid over $195 million for flood damage in Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Washington counties.

Was the August flood in Wisconsin FEMA's most expensive disaster in 2025?

No, the August flood was FEMA's second most costly disaster in 2025, with the southern California wildfires being slightly more expensive.

How is climate change affecting Wisconsin's disaster costs?

Climate change is intensifying storms and increasing rainfall, leading to more frequent and severe flooding events, thus driving up disaster-related costs.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / FEMA Flood Payout Second Highest in 2025

FEMA Flood Payout Second Highest in 2025

8 Jan

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Summary

FEMA paid over $195 million for August flood damage.
This payout makes it the second costliest 2025 disaster.
Climate change intensifies storms, increasing disaster costs.

FEMA Flood Payout Second Highest in 2025

FEMA has allocated over $195 million to residents in Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Washington counties as of January 6, 2026, for damage incurred from the historic August flood. This total makes it the second most costly disaster for FEMA in 2025, nearing the amount spent on the southern California wildfires. Over 36,500 applications for individual assistance have been approved for flood damage in the Milwaukee area.

Disaster payments in Wisconsin are still increasing and have been used for crucial recovery expenses, including temporary housing, home repairs, vehicle damage, and medical costs. For many residents, particularly those without flood insurance, the event underscored the significant financial toll of extreme weather. Experts note that densely populated urban areas like Milwaukee can lead to higher disaster recovery costs.

The August flood was a record-setting rainfall event in Wisconsin, with one gauge recording 14.55 inches in northwest Milwaukee in under 24 hours. This event is indicative of a broader trend where climate change is increasing the intensity and frequency of such storms, leading to greater financial losses. Concerns are also raised about potential federal changes impacting climate data collection and disaster response efforts.