Storms, Heavy Rain Causing Flooding in Elmhurst

UPDATE, 11:40 a.m.: All clear; Elmhurst roads are open again. Next round of storms are expected to begin this evening.

UPDATE, 11:05 a.m.: St. Charles reported flooded west of Route 83, near Kentucky Fried Chicken. Police are there now trying to clear the sewers.

UPDATE, 10:14 a.m.: Flooding now reported at St. Charles and Poplar.

Several areas in Elmhurst are seeing flooding that is severe enough to warrant street closures.

The Palmer Drive underpass at last report had more than 1 foot of water. Police have contacted Elmhurst Public Works to have the road shut down in both directions.

Police also are reporting the ramp to eastbound Interstate 290 at North Avenue is flooded and will be shut down. According to reports, a car on the ramp is stalled and is starting to take in water.

Police advised the city of Northlake to close westbound North Avenue, but the sergeant in Northlake has decided to leave the roadway open for now because it is still passable. Elmhurst reportedly was closing eastbound north avenue at the Interstate.

Police also have been dispatched to other areas in town, including a business, for flooding.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood advisory for DuPage County until 3:30 p.m. today.

“Rainfall rates may approach 1 to 2 inches per hour in the stronger storms,” according to the NWS. “Excessive runoff from this storm will cause elevated levels on small creeks and streams, ponding of water on roads, urban areas, highways, viaducts, underpasses and low-lying areas.”

Thunderstorms producing hail the size of nickels and wind gusts over 60 miles per hour also are expected this morning. These storms could produce frequent lightning and possibly isolated tornados. Thunderstorms are expected to redevelop this afternoon and continue throughout the night.

This story will be updated as new information becomes available.