Flood Warning Issued for Fox River in Algonquin

Rising water levels prompt flood warning, sandbag distribution, and park closure

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:48pm

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a swollen, turbulent river cutting through a low-lying, fog-shrouded valley, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of the natural forces at play.As rising water levels along the Fox River threaten nearby communities, the village of Algonquin takes proactive measures to protect residents and property.Algonquin Today

The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for parts of Kane and McHenry counties in Illinois due to rising water levels along the Fox River in Algonquin. The river is expected to crest at 11.8 feet on Wednesday, prompting the village to make sandbags available at several locations and close Cornish Park due to the rising water levels.

Why it matters

Flooding along the Fox River can pose a serious threat to low-lying areas and homes near the riverbanks. The village is taking proactive measures to help residents protect their property and ensure public safety as the water levels continue to rise.

The details

The National Weather Service issued the flood warning after the Fox River reached 11.18 feet at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, exceeding the flood stage of 9.5 feet. The river is expected to continue rising over the next several days and crest at 11.8 feet around 7 a.m. on Wednesday. While the village is not recommending evacuations at this time, officials are urging residents near the river to monitor the rapidly changing conditions and be prepared to relocate if the water approaches their homes.

  • The flood warning was issued on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
  • The Fox River reached 11.18 feet at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
  • The river is expected to crest at 11.8 feet around 7 a.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

Algonquin Village Officials

Local government officials in Algonquin, Illinois, who are coordinating the response to the rising Fox River levels, including making sandbags available and closing Cornish Park.

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What’s next

The village is encouraging residents near the Fox River to monitor the situation closely and be prepared to relocate if necessary. Sandbags will continue to be available at the designated distribution sites.

The takeaway

This flood warning highlights the importance of proactive planning and community preparedness in the face of extreme weather events. By making sandbags available and closing a park near the river, the village of Algonquin is taking steps to protect its residents and minimize the potential impact of the rising water levels.