After flash floods strike Chicago, first responders emphasize safety in high water

VIDEO: Rain came down fast and hard Wednesday night in Chicago, creating some hazardous situations not only for drivers, but for first responders who were busy rescuing people who were stuck in high waters. Whether it’s a flood on the road or rushing water, some Chicago area firefighters said their training is everything.

The flash floods Tuesday night affected a narrow, but densely populated area that included downtown Chicago. The West Side was hit hardest โ€” as viaducts filled with water as storm drains simply couldn’t keep up. “It is very dangerous,” said Chicago Fire Department First District Chief Jim McDonough. Drivers were left stranded, and about a half dozen needed to be rescued. “You can’t judge the depth of that water,” McDonough said. “What you think may be three or four inches could be three or four feet.” McDonough said drivers should avoid going through standing water and find another route.

WBBM-TV CBS 2 Chicago

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