Johnson calls for community support after 'devastating' flooding in Chicago

CHICAGO - Mayor Brandon Johnson is addressing what he calls "devastating" flooding across Chicago.

Speaking Monday afternoon, he thanked everyone that has helped and pledged his support for the people affected.

Mayor Johnson says he recognizes just how much some people have lost.

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"Sometimes you don't think about it every single day, but the memories that exist within our basements, where families gather, photos are stored, where children play, home childcare facilities or centers that exist in basements — basements in Chicago are as Chicago as everything else," Johnson said.

The mayor wants people to know not only is the government available for help, but he says everyone needs to step in and help one another.

Meanwhile, in Cicero, crews were seen pumping water out of basements on Monday. One resident said every house on her block sustained massive flooding.

"The water was over the lawn, over the sidewalk, everybody’s basement was filled," she said.

Furniture had to be thrown out and appliances replaced. Residents said it’s not the first time.

In Lake Michigan, as families looked to get a break from the warm temps, a swim advisory was in place at three Chicago area beaches.

At Marion Mahoney Griffin Beach in Rogers Park, swimming was banned due to bacteria concerns. Water Reclamation officials said floodgates had to be opened to control the massive water flow.

Nearly 9 inches of rain fell in some places of the Chicago area Sunday, a record-setting storm that forced the CTA and Metra to shut down some train lines, closed some expressways, flooded viaducts throughout Chicago and played havoc with the NASCAR race in Grant Park.