**Flash Flood Watch Issued for Chicago and Suburbs, Another Round of Storms Expected**
Just days after heavy rain caused significant flooding throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, residents are being warned to prepare for another round of storms on Wednesday afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for DuPage and Cook counties, which will be in effect from 2 p.m. until 9 p.m.
The officials are cautioning that creeks and streams may overflow, underpasses could flood, and roads and streets may become impassable due to accumulating water. Basement flooding is also a concern, according to the authorities.
The NBC 5 Storm Team predicts that showers and thunderstorms may start developing around 3 p.m. and will likely continue until after sunset. The Storm Prediction Center has classified most of the Chicago area at a “slight” risk of severe weather, with the primary threats being lightning, hail, and heavy rain.
While the storms are expected to move quickly, precipitation rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour are still possible due to the moisture in the atmosphere. Reservoirs are still full from Sunday’s heavy rain, which dumped up to nine inches in some areas. More than 2,000 complaints of basement flooding were received by the Mayor’s office.
In response to the flooding concerns, officials reversed the flow of the Chicago River into Lake Michigan, but water levels are gradually returning to normal. The rain also caused several expressways to close due to flooding, particularly the Eisenhower and Kennedy, which are prone to ponding in low-lying areas.
Residents are advised to stay informed by tuning into the NBC 5 Storm Team and to exercise caution when travelling in areas where flooding is possible.