Flood Warning Issued for Thorn Creek in Cook County Through Monday Afternoon

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Chicago IL has issued a Flood Warning for Thorn Creek at Thornton. This alert indicates that minor flood stage is forecasted and water levels above flood stage are imminent.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically affects Cook County, Illinois. The geographic scope includes Thorn Creek from near Glenwood downstream to the confluence with the Little Calumet River, including the Thornton gauge.

What You Should Do

Residents and individuals near rivers and streams in the warned area should take immediate precautions to protect life and property. A Flood Warning means water levels above flood stage are imminent or may already be occurring. The NWS advises the public to avoid flooded areas and monitor local weather updates. The next official statement is expected by 10:00 AM CDT.

Expected Conditions

Minor flooding is anticipated as the river stage continues to rise. As of 4:30 AM CDT Monday, the water level was recorded at 8.9 feet. The flood stage for this location is 9.0 feet. When the river reaches 9.0 feet, water begins to be diverted through the Thorn Creek Diversion Tunnel. The river is expected to crest just over 9 feet later this morning before receding.

Timeline

The Flood Warning is effective as of 4:40 AM CDT on Monday, March 16, and is currently set to expire at 1:00 PM CDT on Monday afternoon. The river is expected to fall below flood stage by early afternoon.