Firefighters used a 'No Wake Zone' sign as a makeshift barrier to manage the rising waters outside the Garden Homes Fire Protection District station this morning. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo
Heavy rains lashed several south suburbs this morning, causing widespread flooding and significant damage. Among the hardest-hit areas was the Garden Homes Fire Protection District, where the station and surrounding streets were submerged under about eight inches of water. Local resident Dennis McGuire, Jr. captured the scene and shared his photos with Fox News, who later covered the story from the fire station.
Garden Homes Engine 2533 is seen waiting outside the station, which had several inches of water inside. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo
Scott Bluhm, a member of the Garden Homes Fire Protection District, explained that the volunteer department, which relies on donations, faced serious challenges after the flood. The station was flooded with about two feet of water, damaging essential equipment and computers. Though the area is no stranger to flooding, Bluhm said this was the worst he had seen in years.
“We’ve had floods before, but this one was more severe than any we’ve experienced in a long time,†Bluhm said. “It’s going to take some time to fully recover.â€
South Suburbs Recovering from Flooding, Storms: MyFoxCHICAGO.com
Firefighters wade through the water in front of the station, trying to assess the situation. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo
Looking east on 119th Street reveals how low-lying the area is compared to the road. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo
Â
Garden Homes Engine 2543 waits outside the station alongside firefighters, hoping the water will recede soon. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo
As the community continues to deal with the aftermath of the storm, residents are urging local officials to improve drainage systems and invest in flood prevention measures. For now, the Garden Homes Fire Protection District remains resilient, working tirelessly to restore normal operations despite the challenges.