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NewsNBC Chicago – LocalJuly 3, 2026Illinois

Chicago Area Water Conservation Alert During Severe Storms

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) has issued an Overflow Action Day Alert, requesting that Chicago-area residents limit water usage to prevent flooding and protect water quality during severe thunderstorms. The alert coincides with a flash flood watch covering the Chicago area and northwest Indiana.

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Why It Matters

Residents are asked to reduce indoor water consumption—such as delaying showers, laundry, and dishwashing—to help the regional water system manage the high volume of rainfall and prevent sewage overflows.

Key Facts

  • The MWRD issued an Overflow Action Day Alert on Friday afternoon.
  • Residents are requested to delay showers and baths, flush toilets less frequently, and wait to run dishwashers or washing machines.
  • A severe thunderstorm watch was in effect until 7 p.m. on Friday.
  • A flash flood watch was issued from 8:30 p.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Saturday.
  • The flash flood watch covers the entire Chicago area and northwest Indiana.
  • The MWRD is currently operating its Tunnel and Reservoir Plan to mitigate flooding.
  • Some suburbs canceled July 3rd fireworks shows due to the incoming storms.
  • The MWRD manages seven water reclamation plants.

Who's Mentioned

locationChicago area“The region affected by the severe storms and the conservation alert.”locationnorthwest Indiana“The region included in the flash flood watch.”organizationMetropolitan Water Reclamation District“The agency responsible for managing water reclamation and the Tunnel and Reservo”personKari K. Steele“MWRD President who issued the statement regarding water conservation.”