Kankakee, Illinois – Torrential rain is flooding parts of northeastern Illinois this afternoon as a Flash Flood Warning remains in effect for Kankakee and northern Iroquois counties until 3:45 p.m. CDT.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, radar and local rain gauges detected up to 2 inches of rainfall so far, with rates reaching 3 inches per hour. Streets, low-lying areas, underpasses, and creeks in Kankakee, Bourbonnais, Bradley, and surrounding towns are at high risk for flash flooding.
Drivers along U.S. Route 45 and Illinois Route 17 should avoid flooded roadways, as rapid-onset flooding could make conditions dangerous with little warning. Towns like Momence, Herscher, Clifton, and Grant Park may already be seeing rising water. Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to move to higher ground and avoid travel unless necessary.
Flash flooding is especially dangerous because it develops quickly and can overwhelm drainage systems. Secure valuables, unplug electronics, and check alerts from local emergency services.
The heaviest rain is expected to taper by late afternoon, but runoff may continue impacting roads and streams into the evening. Additional flood alerts are possible if storms persist.
