Evacuations Underway as Flash Flood Warning Issued for Kankakee River in Will and Grundy Counties
Residents in downtown Wilmington are bracing themselves as water levels continue to rise, prompting evacuations and a flash flood warning for the Kankakee River in Will and Grundy counties.
The Will County Emergency Agency’s Chief Deputy Director Tom Murray has expressed their top concern as safety for the residents. As the river conditions continue to change, they want to make sure that everyone is aware and prepared for the potential dangers.
Murray stated on Thursday, “It’s really hard to say how fast it could move. At any given time the ice can break up and move downstream, so it’s really hard to predict that.”
In response to the rapidly rising water levels and flooding on the North and South Islands, the Will County Emergency Management Agency issued an evacuation notification to some residents on Thursday. Water rescue teams were deployed and 14 people were evacuated.
Currently, the flooding in downtown Wilmington is isolated to the North and South Islands, but officials remain concerned as water levels continue to increase due to water runoff and melting ice. The EMA has issued a flash flood warning for the area and advises residents to be prepared to take action, including evacuation, if necessary.
NBC 5 reporter Lisa Chavarria reported early Friday morning from Wilmington that water was already covering the roadways. As of 6 a.m., the Kankakee River level was at approximately 13.6 feet, just shy of the record high of 13.9 feet.
Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes explained that during an ice jam, the ice can become lodged in tight or curved areas, causing a backup of water. Once the jam breaks or melts, all the water that was blocked can cause flash flooding. Jeanes stated that this was already happening and more flooding is expected to occur as the ice jam breaks more.
“During flooding, rapidly-moving water in drainage ditches, culverts, and detention ponds are especially unsafe and the banks may quickly erode,” warned the National Weather Service. “Stay away or be swept away.”
Residents in the affected areas have been advised to move to higher ground immediately. The flash flood warning will remain in effect until at least Saturday morning.
Joe Broadwell, a resident of Wilmington, has been keeping a close eye on the Kankakee River from his backyard. “I’ve been watching the river, making sure it doesn’t stop. A lot of chunks coming through, as you can see, it’s going fast and it’s going far,” he shared.
The Phelan Acres Community, along with a couple hundred homes, could be impacted by the flash flooding, according to officials. “All we can do is prepare and make sure everybody is safe during and after it,” said Dennis Housman, Wilmington Emergency Services & Disaster Agency Director.
The National Weather Service has also reported that Route 53, between 102 and 1st St., is closed and the North and South Islands remain closed to the public.
Wilmington, located in Will County, is approximately 60 miles southwest of Chicago. It is important for residents in this area to stay updated and follow the instructions of emergency officials to ensure their safety.
This ongoing situation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and powerful forces of nature. While we may not be able to control it, we can always prepare and unite to overcome any challenges it may bring. Stay safe, stay informed, and let us pray for the safety of all those affected by this natural disaster.
