Chicago Braces for Potential Flooding as Des Plaines River Residents Prepare Amid Heavy Rain Forecast

CHICAGO (WLS) — Residents of Des Plaines are bracing for potential flooding as persistent heavy rains have led to rising levels of the Des Plaines River.

Firefighters have been busy reinforcing vulnerable stations, while the city has distributed sandbags to assist homeowners in safeguarding their properties.

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With the forecast predicting additional rainfall, many local residents are closely monitoring the river’s water levels.

Officials in Lake County, Illinois, have already cautioned that sections of the river may breach its banks due to recent storms, which have left the soil saturated and certain roads impassable.

“It’s crucial to avoid floodwaters,” advised Des Plaines Fire Department Chief Matt Matzl. “We should neither walk nor drive through it. The water is contaminated, posing health risks, and even a foot of water can sweep a car away, so it’s imperative to steer clear.”

People can pick up sandbags over at Public Works.

Again, the Des Plaines River is expected to crest Friday, but officials say after the storms move through, warm weather should allow water levels to recede.

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