Flood Watch
WHAT: A Flood Watch has been issued by the National Weather Service due to possible flooding caused by excessive rainfall.
WHEN: In effect until March 11, 2026 at 3 a.m.
WHERE: Portions of Illinois, including City of Chicago and Cook County
IMPACT: From the National Weather Service: Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Underpasses may be flooded. Roads and streets may be flooded.
Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is monitoring weather conditions with the National Weather Service in Chicago and coordinating efforts with city departments and other agencies through the Operations Center to respond to the storms affecting the Chicago area today.
The City of Chicago urges motorists to use caution and avoid driving through standing water on streets, viaducts and low-lying areas. Residents can visit 311.chicago.gov, use the CHI311 app or dial 3-1-1 to report water in your basement, standing water in the street or viaduct flooding.
If you experience water in your basement or other parts of your home, be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so. Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
Thunderstorms can happen suddenly and can include flash floods, damaging winds, tornados, or dangerous lightning. It is important to be prepared to take precautions and shelter to avoid the impacts of these conditions. Stay informed and heed warnings from officials. Keep in mind outdoor sirens are intended for those outdoors to seek shelter.
Residents are urged to stay up to date on the forecast and have multiple ways to get weather warnings: keep alerts on cell phones enabled, tune into local media (TV/radio), weather app or weather radio.
