Des Plaines River Level Update: 10:00 a.m. May 18, 2020
As of 10:00 a.m. on May 18th, 2020 the Des Plaines River was at level of 9.52 feet according to reporting information provided by the National Weather Service (NWS) and rising very gradually. Rainfall totals did not meet expected forecasts. The river projection is currently anticipated to crest at 10.5 feet, but the Village anticipates an updated crest lower than the latest forecast. At this level, there will be minimal impact to remaining structures in the flood plain and preventative measures such as sand bags in the entry way to homes and businesses can provide adequate protection.
At this time the Village simply wants to make area residents and businesses aware of the situation and begin taking precautionary measures. The Village does not see an immediate need to leave the area.
Village staff will continue to monitor river levels. Sand bags are available at Gurnee Public Works (1151 Kilbourne Road) for residents and businesses wishing to take a proactive approach to securing their properties. To request sand bags outside of regular business hours, please call the Police Non-Emergency Number at (847) 599-7000.
The Des Plaines River spills over its banks at approximately 7.0 feet, problems with roadway access along McClure Avenue, Emerald Avenue, and Kilbourne Road occur at approximately 8.5 feet.
If you begin to have water come into your basement, please remember to take extreme caution for possible electric shock. The Village would like to urge anyone with flooded basements to contact the Village of Gurnee or ComEd to have the power disconnected prior to entering the basement. From 7:30 am to 4:00 pm Monday thru Friday call the Village of Gurnee at (847) 599-7500, after business hours contact ComEd at (800) 334-7661.
If you have questions regarding this information, please contact the Village at (847) 599-7500. You can receive regular periodic electronic notices on this and other issues via e-mail by registering at:
River heights and crest predictions may be found through this web page:
http://waterdata.usgs.gov/il/nwis/uv?05528000
