Chicago-area residents asked to limit water use amid severe storms, flood risk

As yet another threat of severe weather looms over the Chicago area Friday, residents are asked to help prevent flooding and protect water quality by limiting their water use.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District issued an Overflow Action Day Alert on Friday as most of the region is at risk of strong to severe storms that are expected to bring hail, downpours and even possible tornadoes.

Though the morning started out dry and with summer-like temperatures, storms and showers are predicted to roll in around 5 p.m.

Residents are asked to delay showers and baths, flush toilets less frequently and wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine, according to the alert.

“Our staff is managing billions of gallons of water at our seven water reclamation plants and through our Tunnel and Reservoir Plan to protect our water environment and mitigate flooding,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “As we deal with this fast-changing weather this week, we encourage everyone to conserve water, when possible, to create more capacity in our systems.” 

The storms come amid what has been the wettest spring in decades in the Chicago area.