Dear Neighbor,
Chicago was hit by record rainfall yesterday, causing flooding and basement backup across the city. Additional thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and into the evening, and a Flood Watch is in effect until 1:00 AM.
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Unfortunately, my office has gotten multiple reports of water in the basement across the neighborhood. If you experienced flooding, I encourage you to please report it so we can get an accurate idea of where problems are occurring. You can report it online here, call my office at (773) 262-1050 to report flooding, or call 311.
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Please also report flooded streets or clogged catch basins to my office to get them inspected. Please remember that minor street flooding is normal during a heavy rain and can help keep excess water out of the overtaxed sewer systems and out of basements. If the standing water is excessive or does not go down within a few hours of the rain ending, it could indicate the catch basins are clogged, and we can help you get them inspected and cleared.
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With more rain on the way, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) has issued an Overflow Action Day alert. In Chicago, rainwater goes through the same pipes as your waste water, which means one of the most effective ways to help reduce basement backups and flooding is by conserving water before, during and after rainstorms.
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MWRD recommends the following ways to conserve water on Overflow Action Days:
Delay or reduce shower times
Put off running the dishwasher
Wait to wash clothes in the laundry
Replace old and leaky faucets, toilets and showerheads with new products approved by EPA WaterSense
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Another effective way to keep water out of the sewer system during a heavy rain is to disconnect your downspouts from the sewers. Direct the water away from all homes and let it soak into the ground, or install a rain barrel so you can save the rainwater for reuse. MWRD is offering discounted rain barrels to Cook County residents. Learn more here.
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If you are experiencing any issues due to the severe weather, please contact my office so we can help.
