Des Plaines River hovers just below flood stage

DES PLAINES, Ill. (WLS) -- After a few rounds of rain, the swollen Des Plaines River spilled its banks, hovering just below flood stage.

The river was just over flood stage - 5 feet - Wednesday night, but it dropped overnight. The flood warning expired at 5 a.m. Thursday.

The water level of the Des Plaines River will continue to be monitored. Flooding along the river was listed as "minor" early Thursday morning.

Residents in high flood risk areas are being advised to elevate their furnaces, water heaters and electric panels. Putting up barriers to keep water out of the basement is also recommended.

Earlier this week in Des Plaines, homeowners and drivers had to deal with some nasty flooding. Rain and high water made it hard to get around, with many streets impassable. People were stuck in traffic for hours.

Lake Bluff experienced the same hardships, where water levels caused a big mess on U.S. 41.

Homeowners hope the river swelling will decrease. The National Weather Service said Thursday the weather is going in the right direction to achieve that end, but it's happening very slowly. They believe the Des Plaines River will keep backing up throughout the day and night.