Chicago, IL – Illinois is bracing for potential flooding as bitterly cold temperatures create conditions ripe for ice jams.
The National Weather Service issued a hydrologic outlook Friday, warning of ice jam risks starting Saturday and lasting into early next week. Rivers including the Rock, Fox, Des Plaines, and Kankakee are expected to experience rapid ice formation. Isolated flooding could occur without warning due to potential jams.
According to river ice spotters and gauge data, several Illinois rivers already contain significant ice, with minor jams reported. Bitter cold temperatures forecast for Saturday night through next week will likely worsen conditions. Ice jams can obstruct water flow, causing river levels to rise quickly.
The outlook suggests elevated water levels are likely, but specifics remain uncertain. Residents near rivers should monitor conditions and stay updated on forecasts.
An updated hydrologic outlook will be released Saturday afternoon.
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