Hope floats along Chain O' Lakes

Chain O' Lakes water levels continue to rise today, but there are signs things may be improving.

Arlan Juhl, of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, said more water is still rushing into the Chain from Wisconsin than Fox River dams are able to push out, so the lakes will continue to fill throughout the day.

However, water levels in Wisconsin and along the Nippersink Creek have crested and are dropping, meaning the worst may be over, Juhl said.

With no additional rainfall, the Chain should crest and start to recede in 24 to 48 hours, he said. If the National Weather Service prediction of a half-inch of rain comes true late tonight, that will prolong the problems.

"We just have to wait and see what comes of it tonight," he said.

Ed Lescher, head of the Fox Lake Emergency Services Disaster Agency, said sand-bags have been delivered to people in the lowest lying areas, specifically Atwood Parkway off Grand Avenue, Knollwood Park subdivision off Route 59 and King's Island subdivision off Route 12.

Anyone who needs additional sandbags can contact the village at (847) 587-8570.

"We are keeping a close eye on it right now," Lescher said. "Some homes are taking on water, but not many. So, lets hope the rain stays away and the water starts to drop."