Metropolitan Water Reclamation District
Coverage of Metropolitan Water Reclamation District in the Nexus archive.
- Are Sewer Geysers The New Norm In Chicago? Exploding Manholes Raise Alarm
Chicago experienced sewer geysers after heavy storms caused manholes to erupt with water, attributed to climate change-induced heavy rainfall overwhelming aging infrastructure. Experts like Susannah Drake linked the phenomenon to capacity issues in sewer systems designed for less intense precipitation.
- How Chicago area's water district manages record rainfall as reservoirs hit capacity
The Chicago area's water district is managing record rainfall as reservoirs reach capacity. John Murray, MWRD's executive director, discussed the situation on WGN-TV.
- The System Built To Prevent Massive Floods In Chicago Near Capacity After ‘Stunning’ Rainfall
Chicago's Deep Tunnel stormwater system is near capacity due to record rainfall, with the Thornton Reservoir at 94% full and the McCook Reservoir reaching capacity multiple times this year. The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District warns of potential river flooding in south suburbs if reservoirs overflow, as summer rainfall totals far exceed historical averages.
- Deep Tunnel has never reached its limit. After a weekend of heavy rains it’s almost full
Chicago's Deep Tunnel floodwater system is nearly full after heavy rains, with two reservoirs at 94% and 98% capacity. Eleven suburban communities face river flooding risks, and sewer overflows into the Chicago River are possible. Experts warn the system is insufficient and more water storage solutions are needed.