Monday evening, July 15, the National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning for DuPage County. Outdoor sirens rang. Cell phones sounded alerts.
Television programming was interrupted repeatedly with loud blasts, followed by messages regarding the possibility of “severe thunderstorms capable of producing both tornadoes and extensive straight line wind damage.”
Messaging resounded, “Hazard…Tornadoes. Source…Radar indicated rotation. Impact… Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.”
Repeatedly, precautionary and preparedness actions were advised. “Take cover now! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.”
By 10PM, the warnings had ceased. Winds blew. Rain fell. The DuPage River reached new heights for summer 2024.
Tuesday morning sun was shining through the clouds
Early Tuesday evidence showed storm damage throughout the City of Naperville from north to south. Trees had been split, water was over the banks of the DuPage River and large logs were floating in the river and local retention ponds. Limbs had been strewn all over subdivisions.
Some residents were wondering if a row of trees near 95th Street and Naperville/Plainfield Road had been felled by a tornado.
Along the Riverwalk in downtown Naperville, high water was over the low-flow walk. Caution tape blocked staircases that provide access to the path along the edge of the DuPage River. All efforts were made to keep folks safe throughout the attractive linear park.
Yard waste collection update / Pick up now in progress
At 12:30PM Tues., July 16, the City of Naperville updated its website with info pertaining to Monday evening’s storm and response.
Thank you to the City for updating the website (linked above) to reflect changes and the anticipated timeframe and priority process for tree debris removal through the end of the day on Tues., July 23. No stickers or bags are required during this time period.
Bundles of branches (no more than 3 inches in diameter x 4 feet long) are preferred for ease of handling and collection. Kindly follow all yard waste requirements listed at www.naperville.il.us/yardwaste.
A Few City Council Notes / July 16, 2024
During Tuesday’s City Council meeting, council members expressed “kudos” to City staff and DPW crews for getting power back on as soon as possible on the City’s north side.
City Manager Doug Krieger said he was proud of the work crews had accomplished, complete with “lessons learned.”
Naperville Director of Public Works Dick Dublinski said that of the City’s 70,000 trees, he figured 10,000 had lost limbs. Cleanup is expected to be finished within a week.
Be safe along DuPage River, etc.
This post is a precautionary tale to remind visitors to the DuPage River as it winds throughout Naperville to respect the power of water. Water may seem to flow slowly in its path. Yet, rivers move faster and are more powerful than they seem. Note that after a storm, the river rushes even faster than it appears.
Remember to talk to youngsters in your care about water safety that should be followed every day. When the river seems inviting for water sports, all ages need to be cautious. Always follow advice posted on signs along river banks that say “No Swimming.”
The American Red Cross advises to never swim alone; swim with lifeguards and/or water watchers present. Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket appropriate for your weight and size and the water activity.
If heading to participate in a water sport, always let someone know when and where you’re going. Always wear a life jacket while boating, canoeing, tubing, paddle boating, paddle boarding and kayaking, regardless of swimming skill.
Be safe. Respect water. Enjoy the Riverwalk every day
The Riverwalk logo is enhanced by its motto “For generations to come” on informational signage throughout the linear park in the heart of Naperville.
Riverwalk regulations include “No bicycling, in-line skating or skateboarding.” Simply put, walk all bikes and carry skateboards. Pets are to be on the leash at all times. In addition, let wildlife be wild and find food naturally.
Help spread news about the attractive Riverwalk, water safety and how to enjoy the great outdoors from one generation to the next.
Thanks to everybody who helps keep this community and every place safe.
Photos by Ashley Penick for Positively Naperville
Last Updated after City Council Meeting on July 16, 2024.