Flood Watch in Effect for Downers Grove Area Tuesday

With heavy rainfall expected through northern Illinois and northwest Indiana Tuesday, the National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for areas including DuPage County, effective until late Tuesday.

A flood watch means there is the potential for flooding based on current forecasts, according to the NWS, which warned, "excessive runoff may result in a rapid rise on area streams and rivers, as well as flooded farmlands and field. Water flowing across roads between adjacent flooded fields may present a hazard to motorists."

Rainfall amounts of around 2 inches are possible in the flood watch areas.

Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop, according to the advisory.

Weather.com offers the following tips for preparing for a potential flood:

• Bring in any outdoor items that might cause damage or be lost if flooded.
• Do not walk into floodwaters to retrieve items.
• If you are not at home, go to high ground and wait.
• Thoroughly clean bathtubs with bleach and fill with water for drinking in case water supply becomes contaminated.
• Place all valuables and records in a waterproof container and move to a safe place, such as the highest floor of your home.

During a flood:

• If you are not at home, do not attempt to walk or drive through floodwaters. Instead, go directly to higher ground.
• Keep children and pets away from floodwaters, storm drains and sewers.
• If you are in a car, never try to take a shortcut through flooded areas. If your car stalls, immediately abandon it and climb to higher ground if conditions permit.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

There are plenty of ways to keep up on Downers Grove news:

• Sign up for our daily email newsletter

• Like us on Facebook for a slightly different take