Incidents / Activities / News

Last Updated:  09-23-2008

SEPTEMBER, 2008
FLOODING EMERGENCY

The heavy rain that began falling approximately 40 hours ago has now moved out of the Will County area.  Total rainfall amounts around the County vary from 6 to 9 inches, with the heaviest amounts occurring in the central and eastern parts of the County.  

Will County has been under flood and/or flash flood watches and warnings continuously since approximately 1:30 AM Saturday, September 13.  A flood warning is currently in effect until 10:00 AM CDT Monday, September 15.  Will County was also under a tornado watch on the 13th from approximately 1:45 AM until approximately 8:00 AM.  

Varying degrees of flooding conditions have occurred throughout the Will County area, including sewer back-ups, flooded roads, river flooding, and water in basements.  

The flood conditions have prompted Will County Executive Lawrence Walsh to issue an emergency declaration for Will County, allowing for the activation of the County's emergency operations plan.  The Governor has included Will County in the State Declaration.  

If your property has been damaged as a result of the flooding it is imperative that you take pictures during all phases (i.e.: pictures of the flood waters; damage to your property and structure(s); damage to contents).  Keep a log of all damaged contents.  Keep all receipts from items to assist you in this flooding emergency that you’ve needed to purchase.  Contact your insurance company and inform them of the damage.  

AT THIS TIME THERE IS NO FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION.  

Refer to these publications for added information:  

•   Repairing Your Flooded Home (PDF)
•   Surviving Disasters (PDF)
•   Food Safety Guidance following Power Failures (PDF)
•   Dealing with Mold & Mildew in your Flood Damaged Home (PDF)
•   Floods of 2008: When the Cleanup Begins (PDF)

Links to River Gauges in Will County:  

•   DuPage River – Naperville
•   DuPage River – Bolingbrook and East Branch
•   DuPage River – Shorewood
•   Hickory Creek – Joliet
•   Kankakee River – Wilmington

Low-interest loans are available to storm victims under the Opportunity Illinois: Disaster Recovery Loan Program. 

•   Disaster Recovery No Insurance Coverage Loan Application (PDF)
•   Disaster Recovery One Year Bridge Loan Application (PDF)
•   FAQ Disaster Recovery (PDF)
•   Opportunity Illinois Brochure (PDF)

Visit Illinois State Treasurer for additional information.  

If your property sustained substantial damage caused by the September 13-14, 2008 flooding, you can request a reassessment of your property by visiting Will County Supervisor of Assessments.  Click on Application for Disaster Reassessment.  

If you have a private well and septic system, please see Will County Health Department for additional information.  

If you have any questions, or would like more information on Incidents, Activities or News, please contact our office.