Flooding possible in Lake County, meteorologists say

Flooding along the Des Plaines River, the Fox River and the Chain O' Lakes system in Lake County is possible this weekend because of expected rain, officials announced Wednesday.

The National Weather Service issued flood watches and warnings for parts of the county.

Some localized flash flooding of streets and yards occurred after heavy rain Wednesday morning. More rain was expected overnight.

Minor flooding is forecast along the Des Plaines River.

More significant flooding is possible along the Fox River and the Chain O' Lakes, officials said. Recent rainfall over the Fox River watershed in Wisconsin will lead to increased flows and water levels.

The Fox River Springs community in Antioch Township is expected to be hit, officials said. Water may flow into yards from the river and cover some roads.

Along the Des Plaines River, flooding is possible in Gurnee, Libertyville, Lincolnshire and other towns.

The river is expected to rise to minor flood levels in some spots, particularly further north.

People don't have to start filling sandbags yet, said C. Kent McKenzie, Lake County's emergency management coordinator.

“It depends on how much rain falls in the next 24 hours and where it falls,” McKenzie said.

Still, people who live in flood-prone areas should be ready to respond if the rivers overflow their banks, he said.

Anyone driving in those areas should beware of water-covered roadways, McKenzie said. Roads covered by rushing water particularly should be avoided.

Flooding conditions may persist into the middle of next week, he said.

The most up-to-date travel and roadway information is available from the Lake County Division of Transportation PASSAGE system at lakecountypassage.com. Information also is available through highway advisory radio at 1620 AM.