Wisconsin State Fair Shuts Down Amid Flash Floods; Lynyrd Skynyrd Concert Canceled
- Posted on August 10, 2025
- International Affairs
- By Arijit Dutta
- 76 Views
Severe flash floods forced the early closure of the Wisconsin State Fair on August 9, leaving vehicles trapped and canceling a scheduled Lynyrd Skynyrd concert. The National Weather Service reported heavy rainfall across Milwaukee, with officials urging safety. Ticket refunds were announced as floodwaters disrupted events and stranded fairgoers.
The Wisconsin State Fair closed early on Saturday, August 9, as severe weather brought flash floods to the Milwaukee area, leaving vehicles stranded and forcing the cancellation of a major concert.
The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning at 8:30 p.m. for Milwaukee, West Allis, and Wauwatosa, lasting until 2 a.m. This came after a flood watch was in place for much of southern Wisconsin earlier in the day. Fair officials urged visitors to exit cautiously, with some entrances, such as Tunnel Entrance F, closed due to the storm.
Social media videos captured the chaos, showing cars submerged in water and fairgoers wading through flooded areas. One clip depicted a man walking through waist-high water, remarking, “It’s the only way out.” Others showed attendees making the best of the situation, while meteorologist Tom Wachs reported around four inches of rainfall with more expected.
The flash floods also disrupted entertainment plans. Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd was scheduled to perform on the fair’s main stage at 7:30 p.m., but the show was first delayed and then canceled for safety reasons. Fair organizers announced refunds for ticket holders, with Etix purchases refunded automatically within two weeks, and box office sales eligible for in-person refund claims during weekday hours.
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The early closure and heavy flooding capped off a turbulent day for the fair, which had been drawing large summer crowds. Officials warned residents to remain alert as the risk of further flooding continued into the night.
