Lake County chairman declares state of emergency

Lake County Board Chairwoman Suzi Schmidt has declared Lake County is in a state of emergency and disaster.

By itself, the declaration has no real impact. But it paves the way for the county to receive state disaster aid, a county spokesman said.

Lake County is requesting assistance from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Illinois State Police.

Officials are particularly concerned about the Fox and Des Plaines rivers.

The Fox River has reached record flood levels north of Lake County and flooding is extensive along the entire Chain O' Lakes. The Des Plaines River at Russell Road is experiencing severe flooding, near its flood of record.

Lake County officials are providing sandbags to townships affected by flooding. Residents needing sandbags should call their municipal or township offices. Contact information can be found at www.co.lake.il.us.

Motorists can get up-to-date information about road conditions by visiting www. lakecountypassage.com or going to the Lake County Passage radio station, 1620 AM.

Additionally, the Lake County Emergency Operation Center has been activated. The phone number is (847) 377-7100.