With more rain in the forecast for today, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) has issued an overflow action alert urging Cook County residents to conserve water. By reducing water use during these storms, area residents and businesses can help reduce flooding and protect water quality.

Currently, McCook Reservoir, part of TARP, is approximately 91% full, serving 3.1 million people from Wilmette southwest to Bedford Park. To the south, Thornton Reservoir is approximately 7% full, serving over 556,000 people living on the Far South Side and 13 south suburban communities. The Majewski Reservoir, serving Arlington Heights, Des Plaines and Mount Prospect, is empty.  

In the last week, the MWRD’s Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP) captured approximately 6 billion gallons of combined sewage. MWRD staff work 24/7 protecting the water environment and keeping operations moving at its seven water reclamation plants. After recent rain events, there is less capacity for the MWRD to hold and treat the additional water. When there is limited capacity in TARP, combined sewer overflows may occur.

Residents can conserve water by taking the following actions:

• Delay showers and baths
• Flush less frequently
• Wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine

Flooding and sewer backups can happen for a variety of reasons, ranging from conveyance of water flow in local pipes, the groundwater table, and sump pumps attached to house service lines. 

The MWRD will continue to partner with municipalities to implement local stormwater projects, including green infrastructure, to help our area during rainfall events. 

Visit these links for more information about the MWRD, Stormwater Management and TARP.

Sign up to receive Overflow Action Alerts via text 

Learn what you should do during flooding

Learn about the types of sewer systems in Cook County

Overflow Action Alerts are a joint initiative of the MWRD and Friends of the Chicago River.