Flooding Closes Park, Fox River Levels Expected To Rise Through Next Week

ALGONQUIN, IL — A flood warning is in effect for much of the Fox River across the Chicago area as river levels continue to rise following recent rainfall, with officials warning that conditions may worsen before they improve.

In Algonquin, the National Weather Service says the Fox River is currently at 10.3 feet and is forecast to crest at approximately 11.3 feet on Tuesday, which could result in moderate flooding within the floodplain.

Village officials say they are actively monitoring conditions and have closed Cornish Park until further notice.

Water has already been reported in some low-lying areas, and officials said warning signage will be placed as needed. Select streets may close if conditions worsen, and the village is prepared to begin sandbagging operations if necessary, according to a news release from the village.

No evacuations are currently required, but residents in flood-prone areas are being urged to stay alert and monitor updates at www.algonquin.org.

Officials with the National Weather Service in Chicago said in a Thursday night flood statement that the warning extends across multiple points along the Fox River, including areas from St. Charles downstream, with moderate flooding forecast at some locations and minor flooding already occurring.

Communities along the Fox River are preparing for conditions similar to previous major flooding events in 2013 and 2017, and officials say sandbagging operations have already begun in some towns, according to Shaw Local News Network.

In Nunda Township, crews have been filling thousands of sandbags per hour while residents in areas such as Bayview Beach and Whippoorwill Drive are using pumps to push water back toward the river, Highway Commissioner Rob Parrish told Shaw Local News Network.

Emergency managers are urging residents along the Fox River corridor to prepare for worsening conditions as runoff continues to move through the watershed, according to the article.