Chicago, Illinois – Urban flooding could disrupt commutes and threaten homes across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana starting Wednesday afternoon, as the National Weather Service issues a Flood Watch for the entire Chicago area and surrounding counties.
According to the National Weather Service, the Flood Watch is active from 1 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday afternoon and includes Cook, DuPage, Lake, Kane, Will, Kendall, and 14 additional counties in Illinois, plus Benton, Jasper, Lake, Newton, and Porter counties in Indiana. Forecasters warn of multiple waves of thunderstorms dropping one to two inches of rain per round, with isolated spots seeing even higher totals.
Low-lying roads, underpasses, and neighborhoods in Chicago, Naperville, Joliet, Rockford, Gary, and Hammond are at risk for rapid water rise, especially in areas with poor drainage. City officials urge residents to clear storm drains, avoid driving through flooded streets, and monitor local alerts. Rising water levels are also possible on the Des Plaines and Fox Rivers.
Travel could become hazardous on I-55, I-80, and local expressways during downpours. If you live near creeks or rivers, be prepared to move valuables to higher ground and keep emergency supplies on hand. The severe rainfall pattern is similar to the June 2023 event, which caused widespread street flooding and power outages.
The Flood Watch remains in effect through Thursday afternoon, and more advisories may follow if rainfall rates increase or flooding develops. Stay tuned for updates and prepare now to reduce risk.
