Record-Breaking Rain Floods Riverwalk, Streets In Chicago Area

CHICAGO, IL -- Heavy rainstorms hit the Chicago area over the weekend, causing high river levels. Flooding blocked off walkways and even reached riverside restaurants in some areas. According to the National Weather Service, Saturday was the wettest day since 2011.

A flash flood warning was issued until 6 a.m. Sunday for Cook County. Parts of the Chicago Riverwalk had to be taped off, and the flooding prompted Chicago's First Lady Cruises and Mercury Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline to stop their tour operations. A police boat patrolled the river Sunday, and riverside restaurants were closed.

Midway Airport recorded more than five inches of rain Saturday, and O'Hare recorded 4.19 inches. That much rainfall hasn't been recorded in one day since July 23, 2011, when 6.68 inches fell. (For more local news, subscribe to free email news alerts and a daily newsletter for your hometown Patch.)

Chicago's western suburbs recorded the most significant downpour: Burr Ridge had about 9.3 inches, and Plainfield recorded about 5.05 inches, according to the Weather Service. The rain cleared by Sunday night. Flooding hit roads in Hickory Hills, Lake Forest, Naperville, and other areas.

Temperatures are expected to go up to around 70 degrees by Friday.

Photo via Amber Fisher