Chicago area hit by heavy rains, roads and basements flooded

Heavy rains wreaked havoc across the Chicago area on Sunday, July 3, 2023, leading to widespread flooding of roads, underpasses, and basements. A flash flood warning remained in effect until 18:30 LT, as drivers encountered difficulties navigating flooded areas, particularly on I-57 at 127th, the Eisenhower Expressway, and underpasses on Highway 41 in Lake County.

The National Weather Service issued an advisory at 16:40 LT, strongly urging drivers to postpone non-essential travel in most parts of Chicago and nearby suburbs until floodwaters receded. Significant flooding persisted on some area interstates, leading to the temporary shutdown of I-55 near Pulaski by the Illinois State Police.

The impact of the heavy rainfall extended to the NASCAR Chicago event, which saw the Loop 121 Race being shortened. In addition, several city streets, including the intersections of Kostner and Fillmore, 26th and Ogden, 33rd and California, and Kinzie and Cicero, were left submerged in water.

Even FOX 32 Chicago’s newsroom on Michigan Avenue near Lake Street was not spared from the deluge, necessitating the temporary relocation of staff.

Responding to the situation, the city of Chicago emphasized the Department of Water Management’s deployment of flood mitigation equipment to assist stranded motorists in flooded viaducts. Residents were advised to refrain from driving in flooded areas, while also conserving water during storm conditions to aid the overwhelmed sewer system.

References:

¹ Heavy rain floods underpasses, basements and roads across Chicago area – FOX 32 Chicago

Featured image credit: FOX 32 Chicago

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