Heavy rainfall over the past week has caused flooding to river basins, roads, and properties throughout Lake County. Over the past eight days, Lake County has received between 3.7 and 8 inches of rain. Between 1.4 and 3.1 inches of rain has fallen in the last 24 hours. The saturated ground has led to flash flooding and sump pumps running non-stop in some homes and businesses.
The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) is in "Orange" alert flood status, which means moderate flooding is occurring in Lake County. Staff are out in the field assessing the flood conditions and are gathering data from the most impacted areas.
Water levels on the Fox and Des Plaines Rivers are rising due to rain in Wisconsin that is working its way downstream. Many river basins are currently in moderate or major flood stage.
Des Plaines River
The Des Plaines River at Lincolnshire is at major flood stage and is near its forecasted crest, meaning the highest expected water level before receding. The Des Plaines River at Gurnee and Russell is rising and forecast to crest in moderate flood stage on May 19.
North Branch
The Skokie River at Lake Forest and Highland Park is in minor flood stage and is receding. The North Branch of the Chicago River at Deerfield is in minor flood stage and is receding.
Fox River/ Chain O’Lakes
The Fox River at New Munster is in minor flood stage and is forecast to crest in moderate or major flood stage around May 19 or 20. The Chain O’Lakes is currently at 4.96 feet and is expected to rise.
Lake County SMC will continue to monitor water levels and will provide information if there are any significant updates. Residents can view river levels in their area by visiting this National Weather Service web page. Residents can also find Chain O’Lakes and Fox River water levels on the Fox Waterway Agency’s website.
Roads
Water on roadways has led to delays throughout Lake County. Please visit Lake County PASSAGE at www.lakecountypassage.com to see the latest road conditions. It is dangerous to drive through water. Motorists should remember to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown."
Resources/Stay Informed
If residents need materials or supplies, such as sandbags, contact your local municipality or township. Learn more about flooding, clean-up and precautions to take if you encounter flooding by visiting lakecountyil.gov/flood. For the latest updates, follow Lake County Government on Facebook.
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