St. Charles Fire Chief: Stay Out Of The Fox River

St. Charles fire chief is warning area residents to stay out of the Fox River as high river levels has lead to overflowing banks and strong currents. A flood warning is in effect for the Fox River in Algonquin and Montgomery, according to the National Weather Service. On Wednesday, St. Charles officials said the Fox River had overflowed its banks in some locations in town and urged residents to avoid the river, submerged paths and other flooded areas, according to a news release.

“We understand people are captivated by the power of the river and seeing flooded areas under water," Fire Chief Joe Schelstreet said in the news release." But the river at this stage is extremely dangerous."

He added that residents should never enter floodwater – no matter how shallow it seems. The water can contain debris and contaminants that are detrimental to your health, he said.

"While we are prepared to perform river rescue operations, these conditions are still treacherous for our emergency service personnel," Schelstreet said.

A flood warning is in effect for the Fox River in Algonquin until Tuesday evening and for the Fox River in Montgomery until Monday night.

The Restricted Boating Area designation by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for the Fox River also remains in effect.

More via the National Weather Service

Photo via the city of St. Charles