Power Restored To Many Homewood Residents, Village Braces For Anticipated Rain & Flooding Risks

HOMEWOOD, IL — Power has been restored to much of Homewood as of Friday morning, days after the village was hit by an EF-1 tornado, officials updated residents.

As of approximately 8:15 a.m., the Village said ComEd has reported that power has been restored to 88 percent of Homewood customers. Village Hall's power was restored last evening, and the building is open Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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In a note to Homewood residents Thursday, Mayor Rich Hofeld reflected on the extent of the damage seen locally, and applauded residents for their resilience.

"We have had natural disasters in the past; tornado touch downs in smaller areas, flooding, blizzards, and heat alerts, but I have never seen as much damage as we have had from this storm," Hofeld wrote. "Thankfully no lives were lost, there were no serious injuries and property damage could have been a lot worse. I'm appreciative to our services, Public Works, Fire and Police Departments, and our Village staff for all of their dedication, hard work, and kindness; our businesses for pitching in with services and contributions. And I'm especially proud of all of you; looking out for and helping your neighbors and working tirelessly to remove storm damage. We are the best—we are Homewood."

According to the National Weather Service, there is a localized flooding threat today through Saturday. Repeated rounds of heavy rain could lead to standing water and localized flash flooding.

"As we prepare for another round of storms, it's important that we continue looking out for those in our community who are still without power," the Village said. "Public Works crews remain deployed throughout Homewood clearing brush, branches, limbs and storm debris. We know ComEd is still working to restore power to those Homewood customers who remain, and we are hopeful power will be restored today."

Just as Homewood recovers, another round of weather is expected to hit this weekend, with heavy rainfall and possible flooding predicted. Officials on Friday offered guidance and reminders to residents.

• Homewood, Flossmoor and much of the south suburbs know that the Dixie Highway Viaduct is prone to flooding. If you must travel, please use an alternate route. Please never drive through flooded or standing water.
• If you're able, please help clear leaves, branches and storm debris away from nearby storm drains and curb inlets so water can flow freely.
• If you have a sump pump, make sure it's working properly. If your home is still without power, consider using a battery backup or generator if you have one and can operate it safely.
• If you know someone who is still without power, consider checking in on them or helping supply a generator if you're able.
• If basement flooding is a concern, move any valuables, important documents and other belongings off the basement floor.
• Clean gutters and downspouts, if it's safe to do so. You could also make sure downspouts direct water away from your home's foundation.