Residents along Kankakee River concerned about flooding

KANKAKEE, Ill. (WLS) -- People who live along the Kankakee River braced for more flooding as storms moved through the Chicago area. Thankfully, Thursday's rain did not force the river to swell further.

Flood stage is 9 feet. The river was about one foot above flood stage overnight. The parking lot for the Kankakee Valley Boat Club was under six inches of standing water Thursday morning.

Authorities warned of fast-moving currents under flooded areas, which could impact people trying to drive or walk through the flood water.

Some homeowners have had sandbags in place to protect their property since Monday, when severe storms brought heavy rainfall and nine tornadoes touched in north central Illinois.

"It does worry me. But I just know if I see the water get to the other side of the street, it's time for me to pack up and move," said Gwen Bowles, who lives along the Kankakee River.

The rain that did fall early Thursday morning tapered off around 6 a.m., keeping water levels about the same as they were overnight.

A Flash Flood Watch for Kankakee County remains in effect until 1 p.m.