Morton Grove Experiences Significant 4-Day "Rain Event"

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), May has already had two calendar days with more than 3 inches of rain, and is on track to break rainfall records. From May 14 to May 18 the Village experienced 8.5 inches of rainfall. On Sunday, May 17, the Village received steady rain from Midnight to 9:00 pm. (approximately 21 hours) with 3/4” per hour of rain between 4:30pm and 7:30pm. This unprecedented amount of rain has caused localized flooding in low lying areas and ground pressure on structures as well as the filling of individual sewer systems. Some roadways were impacted by street flooding as rainwater was held in streets, alleys and yards for temporary rainwater detention as the regional Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) discharge points for storm water had reached capacity.

In response to this event the MWRD opened locks to Lake Michigan to drain stormwater from the Morton Grove and regional sewer systems. The opening occurred on Sunday at 3:45 pm and the locks remain open to drain the regional sewer systems.

Village of Morton Grove crews worked through the night on May 18, 2020 to make sure our systems were doing what they can to keep up with the torrential rain event. Regional MWRD water reclamation plants (WRPs) and the MWRD’s Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP), consisting of 109 miles of tunnels and three reservoirs, are also working around the clock to keep up with the flow.

What is the Village Doing?

Flooding is a major concern in northern Cook County and the Village has allocated $1-million in the past two years for sewer system enhancements. Currently the Village is working with county, state and federal agencies to obtain matching fund grants to continue system upgrades. However, even with upgrades there will be times when the regional system will not be able to handle record breaking or near record breaking storm events.

Residents experiencing sewer back-up issues may take advantage of the Village’s Overhead Sewer and Flood Control Assistance Program which provides a 10-year interest free loan for 50% of the cost to purchase and install an approved flood control sewer back-up system. Questions regarding the program or individual sewer concerns should be directed to Morton Grove Public Works 847 470-5235. Details regarding the Overhead Sewer and Flood Control Assistance Program can be found on the Village’s website at - https://www.mortongroveil.org/public-works/overhead-sewer-and-flood-control-assistance-program/