MWRD issues Overflow Action Alert
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago has issued an Overflow Action Alert. Reduce your use of water before, during and after rainstorms to reduce the amount of water in your municipal sewers:
- 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, undersized drainage designs and roof loads, and sump pumps attached to house lines. To help prevent flooding inside or around your home, there are actions you and your family can take before and during rainfall.
MWRD staff work 24/7 protecting the water environment, mitigating flooding, managing waterway elevations, and keeping operations moving at its seven treatment plants.
The MWRD treats an average of 1.47 billion gallons of wastewater per day, but that number can soar above 2 billion with intensive rainstorms.
Learn more about Combined Sewer Overflow prevention
Sign up to receive Overflow Action Alerts via text
For more information and explanations about how the MWRD’s infrastructure and waterway system operate, visit these links:
Learn about the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP)
Understand how the Chicago Area Waterway System works
Read our booklet “Understanding Your Sewer”
Request a presentation for your community
Municipal partners can review stormwater partnership opportunities