Flash Flooding in Wilmington, Illinois Spurs Emergency Evacuations

Rapidly rising Kankakee River due to ice jam threatens further damage; flash flood warning in effect.

Flash flooding in Wilmington, Illinois, has led to emergency evacuations and water rescues due to rapidly rising water levels in the Kankakee River.
At least 14 people have been successfully rescued from the water, and a temporary emergency shelter has been opened.
Approximately 200 homes near the river are at risk of flood damage.
An ice jam on the Kankakee River, formed due to extreme cold, could lead to sudden and severe flooding when it breaks.
A flash flood warning is in effect until Saturday morning, but may be extended depending on when the ice jam breaks.