The McHenry County Emergency Management Agency advised residents on April 17 to take precautions against potential flooding, especially those living in areas along the Fox River. The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning from Johnsburg downstream to Red Gate Road in St. Charles and urged people near the river to take “immediate precautions to protect life and property.”
Flooding poses risks not only to homes but also to water wells and septic systems, which can become contaminated or disrupted if submerged. The agency recommends creating sandbag barriers wrapped in plastic before water levels rise as an effective method of protecting property. “Sandbags only work to protect property if they are deployed wrapped in plastic before the water rises,” said David Christensen, Director of McHenry County Emergency Management. “Now is the time to create your barriers before additional storms come into the area on Saturday.”
The county has begun distributing sandbags through local townships, with county employees and volunteers assisting in filling and distribution efforts. Residents can contact their township or municipality for information about obtaining sandbags.
The agency also warns that flooded wells should be considered unsafe for drinking or cooking until properly treated by boiling tap water for at least five minutes or using bottled water. Septic systems under water may not function correctly, so alternative housing is recommended until waters recede; otherwise, portable toilets may be used temporarily.
As more rain is expected, officials remind residents not to drive or walk through floodwaters due to risks of injury and illness transmission from standing water. They advise preparing a go bag with essentials such as food, clothing, important documents, charging cords, first aid supplies, and pet emergency kits including leashes or carriers.
According to data from the Illinois State Board of Education the average student-to-teacher ratio in McHenry County was 14-to-1 during the 2022-23 school year, with 45,580 students enrolled across its schools staffed by 3,317 full-time faculty members. Teacher absenteeism was recorded at 34.2% during that period, slightly lower than Illinois’ statewide average of 35.6%. Among local schools last year: Huntley High School had the highest enrollment of white students (2,133) and multiracial students (135); Harvard High School had the highest number of Hispanic students (574); while Harry D. Jacobs High School led among Black student enrollment with 87 students.
Officials emphasize ongoing vigilance as storms approach this weekend.
