MCHENRY COUNTY (WBBM Newsradio) – Water levels along the Fox River are slowly receding after cresting over the weekend in McHenry County, but officials warn that additional rainfall expected Monday could stall or reverse that progress.
Several roads that were closed due to flooding remained shut as of Sunday, including S River Road in McHenry and Rawson Bridge Road in Cary.
At the Algonquin Dam, the river level had dropped to about 11.9 feet Sunday morning–just below major flood stage, which begins at 12 feet. Flood warnings remained in effect along much of the river and the Chain O’ Lakes, though conditions had eased slightly in some areas.
Forecasters with the National Weather Service Chicago say uncertainty around Monday’s weather remains high. The timing, location and intensity of potential storms could determine whether the river continues to recede or rises again.
In the meantime, authorities are urging residents to avoid flooded roadways and respect barricades. “Turn around, don’t drown,” the National Weather Service advises, noting that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.
Health officials also caution that floodwaters may be contaminated. Residents handling debris are encouraged to wear protective gear, and sandbags exposed to floodwater should not be reused in areas where people may come into contact with them.
