Cook

Forecasts for Illinois — Return to U.S. Severe Weather

	Current Severe Weather

	Flood Warning
Statement as of 9:49 AM CDT on March 16, 2010 The Flood Warning continues for the Des Plaines river near Des Plaines. * At 845 am Tuesday the stage was 5.3 feet. * Flood stage is 5.0 feet. * Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast. * Forecast... the river will continue to fall and go below flood stage by Wednesday morning.

	Public Information Statement
Statement as of 9:00 am CDT on March 16, 2010 ... Day 2 of 2010 National flood safety awareness week... Your National Weather Service invites your participation in the annual National flood safety awareness week March 15 through 19. Todays theme is turn around... dont drown... or tadd. Tadd is an effort to increase awareness of the dangers of driving over flooded roads or walking in flooded areas. Too many people die due to misjudging the power of moving water or their ability to navigate flooded areas. Flooding can happen rapidly due to thunderstorm rains or slowly due to Spring snowmelt. Either way... many deaths could have been prevented by simply turning around. A canceled or delayed trip is Worth the time and effort. Some items to consider to increase your flood safety... get or stay on higher ground... avoid low spots... in the Road. Turn around... dont drown... cancel or delay a trip if it is over flooded roads. Flooded roads may be temporarily blocked by a turn around dont drown sign. Flooded Road may have hidden dangers... such as washed out roadbeds or underwater obstructions. Keep children away from flooded areas or areas of fast moving water. Dont Camp near the river if there is a flash flood threat. Flooding can happen at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers. Turn around... dont drown is a joint effort between the National Weather Service and the federal Alliance for safe homes. Additional information about flood safety awareness week is available at www.Floodsafety.NOAA.Gov