From McHenry County:
McHENRY COUNTY URGES FLOODING PREPAREDNESS
WITH INCOMING STORMS
5 PM storm map on April 17, 2026.
WOODSTOCK, Ill. – McHenry County Emergency Agency encourages residents in flood-prone areas along the Fox River to protect their properties and monitor well and septic systems.
The National Weather Service has already issued a flood warning from Johnsburg downstream to Red Gate Road in St. Charles on April 17, 2026, and has warned people living along the Fox River to take “immediate precautions to protect life and property.”
One method of protecting property from flood damage is by creating sandbag barriers along waterfronts.
Algonquin dam can barely be seen.
“Sandbags only work to protect property if they are deployed wrapped in plastic before the water rises,” said David Christensen, Director of McHenry County Emergency Management.
“Now is the time to create your barriers before additional storms come into the area on Saturday.
”McHenry County Emergency Management Agency is already sharing bags with local townships which are working with neighbors, county employees, and volunteers to fill and distribute them.
Residents seeking sandbags can inquire with their townships or municipalities to obtain them.
Flooding can also contaminate wells and disrupt septic systems.
A water well which has been submerged must be considered contaminated and unsafe to drink for cooking, drinking, preparing food, baby formula or brushing teeth.
Obtain bottled water or bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least 5 minutes before use.
Private sewage disposal systems which are under water will not function properly and should not be used.The best option is to find alternative housing until the flood waters recede.
If alternative housing is not available, it may be possible to utilize a portable or chemical toilet temporarily.
As additional rain comes to the McHenry County area, residents are reminded to avoid driving or walking through flood water.
Use extra caution when using low-level roadways and areas that are beneath viaducts or adjacent to waterways.
A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult, and standing water can spread illnesses to people and pets.
The McHenry County Emergency Management Agency advises residents that whenever there is a chance of flooding or adverse weather conditions, it is always a best practice to have a go bag with food, water, extra clothing, charging cords, important documents and a first aid kit.
Pet emergency kits should include leashes, harnesses or carriers to transport pets safely.
