Chicago, Illinois – Drivers across eastern Illinois and northwest Indiana should brace for high water on roads and rising creeks as a Flood Watch remains in effect until 7 p.m. CDT Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, excessive rainfall has saturated ground across counties including Livingston, Will, Kankakee, and Ford in Illinois, as well as Lake, Porter, Newton, and Jasper in Indiana. Urban flooding is most likely in low-lying neighborhoods and poor drainage areas.
Rainfall totals between 1 to 3 inches have fallen across the region since early morning, with isolated heavier bands lingering through the afternoon. Flash flooding is possible along Route 45, I-57 near Kankakee, and local roadways near Gibson City, Joliet, and Valparaiso. Emergency management teams warn that small streams could rise rapidly and overflow.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through standing water and to check local alerts. Keep mobile devices charged in case of power interruptions and consider delaying travel until conditions improve.
The watch may be extended if additional storms develop. Stay tuned to the latest advisories from the NWS and local officials.
