Serious Flooding in Chicago Turns NASCAR Race into a Waterlogged Challenge

Chicago Weather Live blog: Serious flooding in Chicago, NASCAR race off to chaotic start

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July 2, 2023

Heavy rains have wreaked havoc on the city of Chicago and its suburbs, causing widespread flooding and disrupting various events, including the NASCAR Street Race and the Chicago Cubs game. The torrential downpour, with some locations experiencing three or more inches of rain in just 90 minutes, has led to major challenges for motorists and sports enthusiasts alike.

Chicago‘s NASCAR Street Race off to wild start

The NASCAR Street Race in Chicago got off to a chaotic start as heavy rains made driving conditions treacherous. Within three laps, the first caution flag was raised after Kyle Busch crashed into a tire barrier. Other drivers also struggled on the waterlogged track, with pole-sitter Denny Hamlin hitting the tires as he turned onto DuSable Lake Shore Drive.

MWRD reverses flow of Chicago River in downtown

To mitigate the flooding, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) decided to reverse the flow of the Chicago River at both the Wilmette and downtown locks. Normally, the river flows away from Lake Michigan, but during heavy rains, the flow can be reversed to prevent flooding. However, this process also leads to additional pollutants and sewage entering the lake, causing concerns about water quality at city beaches. Many beaches have already been closed due to water quality issues.

Drivers told to return to vehicles as NASCAR‘s Chicago race could soon start

Drivers at the NASCAR Street Race in Chicago were initially told to return to their cars, with a potential start time of 5:15 p.m. However, due to the ongoing heavy rain and flooding, the race was further delayed, with NASCAR targeting a start time of 6:15 p.m.

Lanes on the Edens, Eisenhower, and Kennedy all remain closed

The heavy flooding has caused road closures on major expressways, including the Eisenhower Expressway, where both inbound and outbound lanes between Des Plaines and Harlem Avenue remain closed. The Kennedy Expressway also has blocked lanes at Addison Street, and the Edens Expressway has closed inbound lanes between Elston and Montrose, except for the right shoulder. Other roads, such as Cicero Avenue and Archer Avenue, have also been closed due to flooding.

NASCAR in “holding pattern” for Cup Series race due to heavy rains

The Grant Park 220 NASCAR Cup Series race, set to take place in Chicago, has been put on hold due to the heavy rains. NASCAR officials stated that they are in a “holding pattern” until conditions improve before the race can start.

Flight delays reported at Chicago airports due to flooding

Chicago‘s airports, O’Hare and Midway, have experienced flight delays and cancellations due to the rainy conditions. As crews work to keep runways clear, approximately 53 flights have been canceled at O’Hare, and six at Midway. Delays are averaging around 20 minutes at both airports.

Portion of Chicago Riverwalk closed due to flooding

The Chicago Riverwalk has been closed from Lake Street to State Street due to flooding caused by the heavy rain. Officials are advising people to avoid the area.

Officials: Chicago River flow reversed due to heavy rains

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago has announced that they have reversed the flow of the Chicago River into Lake Michigan to alleviate flooding caused by heavy rainfall. Some areas have received up to five inches of rain, which far exceeds previous records for July 2.

Rain forces Chicago Cubs rain delay

The Chicago Cubs game against the Guardians has been delayed due to record-setting rain. Initially scheduled for a 4:05 p.m. start time, the game was pushed back further due to persistent rain. The future start time for the game remains uncertain as heavy showers continue to flood several neighborhoods.

Flash flood warning extended until 6:30 p.m. after rain band moves into area

A flash flood warning has been extended until 6:30 p.m. for central and northeastern Cook County as a heavy rain band moves back into the city from Lake Michigan. Previous flooding may worsen quickly, especially in areas that have already experienced heavy rainfall.

Stevenson reopens, heavy rain still possible this afternoon

Parts of the Stevenson Expressway that were closed due to earlier flooding have reopened. However, heavy rain is still expected in some areas Sunday afternoon. Flash flooding remains possible, and officials are advising residents to delay non-essential travel until roadways clear.

NASCAR says Cup Series race expected to happen Sunday

Despite the cancellation of the Xfinity Series race, NASCAR officials are still planning to proceed with the Grant Park 220 Cup Series race as scheduled on Sunday. The race is set to take place at 5 p.m. and will be broadcasted on NBC, Peacock, MRN Radio, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Conclusion:

The heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding have posed significant challenges for Chicago and its residents. The impact on various events, such as the NASCAR Street Race and the Cubs game, highlights the extent of the disruption caused by the extreme weather. The reversal of the Chicago River’s flow, while providing temporary relief from flooding, raises concerns about water quality. As the city continues to deal with the aftermath of the heavy rains, it is crucial for residents to prioritize safety and follow any advisories or instructions from officials.