Flooding is possible in Chicago as heavy rainfall is expected across the region

The chance of heavy rain over the next few days in the Chicago area could lead to flooding.

“Surges of showers” began in the area Sunday afternoon and are expected to last through early Tuesday, said Kevin Birk, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Chicago.

“We expect heavier rainfall to occur in the area later (Sunday) and particularly Monday evening into Tuesday morning,” Birk said.

The heaviest rainfall over the next few days is expected along and northwest of Interstate 55, according to the weather service. This is also where the likelihood of flooding is highest, particularly in low-lying areas or places with poor drainage.

Areas with the heaviest rainfall could see 5 to 10 cm of rain, Birk said. The rest of the Chicago area could see 1 to 2 inches.

Thunderstorms are also possible.

To mitigate flooding, people are advised to ensure fallen leaves are removed from gutters and storm drains, Birk said.

“The only thing that is true for us is that we were really dry and experiencing some sort of drought,” Birk said. “So the soil and the rivers should have some capacity to absorb some of that precipitation.”

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District in the Chicago area warned of possible flooding and sewer backups.

People can help prevent flooding by reducing water use during storms, by delaying showers or baths, waiting to use dishwashers or washing machines, and flushing toilets less often, the agency said.

The agency recommended residents report any flooding in their area and sign up for alerts.

Rainfall is expected to ease as Election Day progresses Tuesday, Birk said. Clearer skies and temperatures around 60 degrees will follow on Wednesday.

“Once we get through this rain, we should see dry and fairly pleasant weather with above-average temperatures for this time of year,” Birk said. “After Tuesday it doesn’t look so bad.”