September 13, 2019
Water Levels Expected to Rise This Weekend
National Weather Service projects Des Plaines River to be at major flood stage this weekend
Lake County is continuing to monitor flooding caused by heavy rainfall in the region over the past week.
Due to heavy rain in southeast Wisconsin this week, water levels are expected to rise on the Des Plaines River, Fox River, and Chain O'Lakes this weekend as the water makes its way downstream, and as water from flooded roads and yards makes its way back to the rivers. Local officials are continuing to work together to assist our communities in response to flooding.
The Des Plaines River is projected by the National Weather Service to reach major flood stage this weekend. This means those who live along or near the Des Plaines River should prepare for high water over the next several days and pay attention to weather and flooding forecasts.
The Fox River and Chain O'Lakes are also projected to rise. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has closed the Fox River to boating, and the Chain O'Lakes is at no wake status. The Skokie River has crested, meaning water levels have peaked and the river is beginning to recede.
The National Weather Service and Lake County will continue to monitor water levels throughout the weekend. Note that projections are subject to change. River gauge data can be found on the National Weather Service website.
The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission continues to assess localized flooding. Residents can help Lake County document the extent of flooding by sending a photo and the location of flooding in or around their homes and neighborhood. To do this, residents can complete this form.
For updated road conditions, please visit Lake County PASSAGE. Remember that it is dangerous to drive through high water. Motorists should remember to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown."
If residents need materials or supplies, such as sandbags, contact your local municipality or township.
Watch for updates on Lake County's Facebook page and on www.lakecountyil.gov/flood. Lake County will be posting information as the situation develops.
News Release from Sept. 13 at 12:18 p.m.
Heavy rainfall overnight and into this morning has caused localized flooding in Lake County.
Reports indicate that over the past five days, Lake County communities have received between five to seven inches of rain. Lake County officials are working together to assist local communities in response to flooding. Many water storage areas are full, or over-capacity.
A number of rivers in Lake County are nearing flood stage, or are at minor or moderate flood stage and are expected to rise through Sunday according to the National Weather Service. This includes the Des Plaines River, the Skokie River, and the Fox River. The National Weather Service posts river gauge data on its website.
There have been several road closures due to water on the pavement. This is making travel difficult through many areas of the county. For updated road conditions, visit Lake County PASSAGE. It is dangerous to drive through water. Remember to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Avoid contact with floodwater which can contain organisms that may cause disease. Do not walk through flooded areas, and prevent children and pets from playing in or drinking water left in puddles or flooded areas. If you come in contact with floodwater, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water.
Check for safety hazards before entering a flooded home or basement. Make sure no electrical or other safety hazards, such as leaking gas, exist.
The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission is continuing to assess localized flooding. Residents can help Lake County document the extent of flooding by sending a photo of flooding in or around their homes and neighborhood. To do this, residents can complete this form.
Watch for updates on Lake County's Facebook page and on www.lakecountyil.gov/flood. Lake County will be posting information as the situation develops.
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