Residents near Kankakee River prepare for possible flooding

KANKAKEE, Ill. (WLS) -- The Kankakee River can't take much more water, so nearby residents are taking precautions in case of major flooding.

Resident Mary Clark has had the sandbags in place around her riverfront home since Monday. By Tuesday, they helped keep her home from being flooded.

The water has receded several feet in the last day, but with more rain coming, residents are prepared for the worst.

"It's frustrating and that, but, we get used to it. The joys of living on the river," Clark said.

The Kankakee River remains at flood stage. The parking lot next to the park grounds is now an extension of the river. It's fun for some, but dangerous, and because of the fast-moving current, boating is prohibited and the deck at the Kankakee Valley Boat Club is surrounded by water.

"Swimming on the sidewalk. The sidewalk was flooded and we were swimming on the walk," said Veronica Gresham.

The flooded grounds and forecast for more severe weather forced the Cub Scouts day camp program to move to higher ground.

"Be prepared. We were prepared. We had a back-up location," said A.J. Galli, scout leader.

Many dry days are needed before the river will recede back where it should be, and more rain is in the forecast for overnight Wednesday.