Rain Tapers Off But Flooding Continues

Cover Image

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Chicago area will get a break from consistent rainfall that’s caused flooding and pushed the city’s sewer system to capacity, according to forecasts.

A few showers and a possible thunderstorm are possible Wednesday afternoon, mainly in areas south of Interstate 55, the National Weather Service said. Additional showers and storms are expected Thursday.

Yes, the rain will taper today. Another round tomorrow, and then mostly dry weekend. Caution near rivers! #ilwx #inwx #turnarounddontdrown pic.twitter.com/d9S1vBngO5

— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) May 1, 2019

The Chicago River is under a flood advisory until late Wednesday, according to the weather service. A section of the Des Plaines River in Irving Park on the Northwest Side may also see some flooding.

Although the rain is expected to slow down, river levels will high remain for several days, the weather service said.

Not sure how to view/interpret river information? See this useful graphic. #ilwx #inwx #turnarounddontdrown pic.twitter.com/oDNvufFU1J

— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) May 1, 2019

Friday is forecast to be mostly dry, with a high around 64 degrees, according to the weather service.

Cook County has seen more than 3.8 inches of rain on average since Saturday, and nearly two inches in the past hour.

The downpour pushed the county’s water reservoir systems to capacity, which threatens to send excess polluted water into fresh water sources, such as the Chicago River, according to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago.

(Source: Sun-Times Media Wire & Chicago Sun-Times 2019. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)