News
"The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago has issued an overflow action alert," WGN Radio 720-AM
September 30, 2026
The public is asked to delay shower times, wait to wash clothes, and avoid running the dishwasher due to heavy rains.
"Water alert issued for Chicago-area; residents asked to delay showers amid heavy rain, flooding," NBC 5 Chicago
September 30, 2026
Because of today's rains, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago released an overflow action alert, urging everyone to conserve water and save capacity in local sewers.
MWRD connects business community with contracting opportunities at 2026 IMPACT Small Business Summit
September 30, 2026
Nearly 500 business owners, water professionals, government officials and small business experts gathered at Chicago’s Malcolm X College on Sept. 24, to make connections and learn about contracting opportunities at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago’s (MWRD) 2026 IMPACT Small Business Summit.
MWRD Board of Commissioners to meet Thursday, October 1 at 10:30 a.m.
September 30, 2026
Board meetings are open to the public and can be streamed online.
MWRD Issues Overflow Action Alert
September 30, 2026
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago has issued an Overflow Action Alert. Reduce your use of water during and after the storm to help prevent flooding and protect water quality:
Delay showers and baths
Flush less frequently
Wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine
Delay showers and baths
Flush less frequently
Wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine
Despite cancellation, Chicago River Swim and Big Jump highlight revitalization of the Chicago River
September 21, 2026
Although the Chicago River Swim was cancelled after a weekend of heavy rainfall and lightning, the annual event still raised critical funds for ALS research and swim lessons and introduced hundreds of jumpers to a revitalized Chicago River.