Heavy rainfall expected to move into the Chicago area Friday could raise area river levels, prompting a warning to conserve water from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago.
The National Weather Service on Thursday forecasted heavy rain beginning Friday morning, with the heaviest rainfall expected from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.The rain is forecast to fall in the Chicago area, extending into the southern and western suburbs and part of Northwest Indiana.
The weather service expects rainfall up to around half an inch but warned that some areas could see up to 1.5 inches. Forecasters said it was too soon to tell which areas would receive the heaviest rainfall.
Here is a general timeline on the rainfall expected this evening through Friday. The greatest threat for heavy rain is expected Friday morning, especially in the yellow shaded area but uncertainty in the exact location remains. Stay up to date on the forecast! #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/RcMWCtjPrA
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) January 30, 2025
The forecast prompted officials at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago to issue an overflow action alert, asking residents to conserve water before, during and after the storm to prevent flooding in streets and homes.
Because rainwater and water from residences share the same sewer pipes, excessive rain can lead to water backups in streets and basements, according to the water reclamation district.
The rains would be a departure from recent snow and cold weather in the area.
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