September 14, 2019
Flood Preparedness and Response, Road Closures, and Safety Information
Lake County is continuing to monitor flooding caused by heavy rainfall in the region over the past week.
Water levels are rising on the Des Plaines River, as water makes its way downstream and as water from flooded roads and yards makes its way back to the rivers. The Des Plaines River is expected to approach or exceed major flood stage this weekend. 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.
Water levels on the Fox River and Chain O'Lakes are also rising, as water makes it way downstream. Residents who live along the Fox River and Chain O’Lakes should prepare for flood impacts and pay attention to weather and flooding forecasts. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has closed the Fox River to boating, and the Chain O'Lakes remains at no wake status.
The Skokie River and the North Branch of the Chicago River have crested, meaning water levels have peaked and the water is receding.
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.
Road Conditions
On Friday, Sept. 13, a number of road closures occurred due to flash flooding. Most of these roads have since re-opened. However, there are several Gurnee area closures due to the Des Plaines River rising. As of Saturday, Sept. 14 at 1:30 p.m., this includes:
• IL Route 132 – from IL Route 21 to O’Plaine Road in Gurnee
• Old Grand Avenue – from IL Route 132 to First Street in Gurnee
• O’Plaine Road – from IL Route 132 to Old Grand Avenue in Gurnee
For the latest road conditions, visit Lake County PASSAGE. It is dangerous to drive through standing water. Remember: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown."
Sandbags and Clean Up Kits
Residents in need of sandbags or clean up kits should contact their local municipality or township office. Sandbags can act as a barrier to divert floodwaters and prevent or reduce flood damage at your home.
Safety
If your basement or home floods, put safety first. Do not step into floodwater. Call your natural gas provider, North Shore Gas at (866) 556-6005, or Nicor Gas at 888-642-6748, and ComEd at (800) 334-7661 to turn off your natural gas and electricity before entering a flooded space. If you smell natural gas, leave your home immediately and dial 911.
Remember to avoid contact with floodwater if possible. Floodwater can contain organisms that may cause disease. If you come in contact with floodwater, wash the area thoroughly with soap and clean water.
Help Document Flooding by Submitting Form
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.
Stay Informed
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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