Science & Nature

Waves of Storms Expected Wednesday; Officials Issue ‘Overflow Action Day’ Asking Chicagoans to Use Less Water

Waves of rainstorms are expected to move through Chicago Wednesday, prompting an “overflow action day” alert from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD).

In Chicago’s combined sewers, wastewater and stormwater funnel into the same pipes, and heavy rains can overwhelm the system. To help prevent flooding and the potential for a combined sewer overflow — in which untreated wastewater is pumped into area waterways — the MWRD encourages people to reduce water use before, during and after the storms.

This means delaying showers or baths, holding off on running the dishwasher or doing laundry, and flushing toilets less frequently. 

On Wednesday afternoon, the National Weather Service issued a revised forecast for Chicago. While the city is still likely to see additional rainfall, the chance of severe impacts has diminished.

(National Weather Service)

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