Heavy rainfall and a retractable roof at American Family Field allowed the Milwaukee Brewers to sweep the New York Mets despite severe weather conditions in the city. Milwaukee experienced historic flooding over the weekend, raising concerns about the impact on the game. While torrential downpours and rising water levels threatened outdoor activities, the installation of the roof meant the Brewers could continue their series uninterrupted. Had the stadium been open-air, rainouts would have been inevitable as the storm caused significant disruptions in the area.
Throughout the weekend, Milwaukee faced record rainfall, with some regions receiving up to 12 inches of rain, causing widespread distress. Roads outside the ballpark turned into rivers, with cars submerged and the general public facing hazardous conditions. Members from the SportsNet New York (SNY) crew, who traveled to cover the Mets’ games, encountered peril when they became trapped in flooding while returning to their hotel. Broadcaster Steve Gelbs recounted the crew’s harrowing experience of abandoning their vehicle and swimming to safety due to the extreme flooding.
The storm left nearly 47,000 customers without power in southeast Wisconsin, with utility workers struggling to manage the damage. Firefighters responded to over 600 calls for various emergencies, including electrical outages, gas leaks, and water rescues, as local agencies worked tirelessly to alleviate the impacts of the flooding. The overflowing Menomonee River submerged a well-frequented playground in Wauwatosa, highlighting the storm’s extensive damage throughout Milwaukee and its suburbs.
Despite the adverse conditions, a commendable number of 33,700 fans braved the weather to attend Sunday’s game, driven by a desire to support their team. Their perseverance paid off as the Brewers staged an impressive comeback, overcoming a deficit of five runs to achieve a walk-off victory. This victory marked the team’s ninth consecutive win, showcasing their resilience in the face of challenges, both on and off the field.
Local officials advised residents to exercise caution and avoid driving or walking through standing water, stressing the dangers associated with flooding. The City of Milwaukee’s Public Works department issued warnings as crews worked diligently to clear surface water from streets and ensure public safety amidst ongoing recovery efforts. As community members navigated the repercussions of the storm, the Brewers found ways to bring some joy and excitement back to the city amidst the turmoil.
The Brewers’ strong performance against the Mets, combined with their ability to play through adverse weather, highlighted the ongoing spirit of Milwaukee residents. While the area continued to deal with the aftermath of the flooding, the successful completion of the series against a formidable opponent allowed fans a brief reprieve from the troubles caused by nature. The team’s determination reflects not only their competitive spirit but also resonates with the resilience of the Milwaukee community.
