A flood warning was issued for parts of the Chicago-area as another round of severe storms are expected to drench the region.
The warning is in effect for Cook, Kane, Kendall, Lake and McHenry counties until just after 5 a.m. on Saturday.
“Persons along rivers and streams in the warned area should take immediate precautions to protect life and property,” the National Weather Service said in the warning.
Storms moving across the region could bring periods of torrential downpours that could lead to flooding in low-lying areas and rising of already high river levels, NWS said.
“A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult, and standing water can spread illnesses to people and pets,” McHenry County Emergency Agency said in an advisory urging residents to prepare for the storms by protecting their properties and monitoring well and septic systems.
Flooding can contaminate wells and disrupt septic systems, the agency said, and a well that has been submerged is considered contaminated and unsafe to drink for cooking, drinking, preparing food, baby formula or brushing teeth. Residents whose wells become submerged should “obtain bottled water or bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least 5 minutes before use,” the agency said.
Private sewage disposal systems will not function properly if they are under water and should not be used, the agency said, advising that “the best option is to find alternative housing until the flood waters recede. If alternative housing is not available, it may be possible to utilize a portable or chemical toilet temporarily.”
“Sandbags only work to protect property if they are deployed wrapped in plastic before the water rises,” said David Christensen, Director of McHenry County Emergency Management. “Now is the time to create your barriers before additional storms come into the area on Saturday.”
Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management sent out an advisory Friday afternoon warning residents to be weary of the dangers of standing water.
“Thunderstorms can happen suddenly and can include flash floods, damaging winds, tornados, or dangerous lightning. It is important to be prepared to take precautions and shelter to avoid the impacts of these conditions,” OEMC said in the advisory. “Stay informed and heed warnings from officials. Keep in mind outdoor sirens are intended for those outdoors to seek shelter.”
