How We Captured This Photo of Flooding After a Water Main Break in Skokie
What makes this photo great? I like how it captures the depth of both the water and the damage, stretching across such a long expanse. It further emphasizes just how much water had flooded the neighborhood.
How did you get the shot?
Despite the freezing temperatures – I believe it was around 10 degrees that day – the reporter and I decided to explore the neighborhood. When we first arrived, we stood in the same spot where the police vehicle is visible in the background. We could have taken photos from there and called it a day, but instead, we chose to brave the cold and thoroughly explore the neighborhood to better understand the damage and speak with residents.
This shot was taken after an hour of carefully navigating major flooded areas – occasionally misjudging the water’s depth and soaking our feet. After taking the long way around, we finally reached a berm that provided a clear, elevated view of the submerged street.
Technical details:
- Equipment: Canon EOS R5 with a RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM lens
- Focal length: 200 mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Exposure: 1/6400
- ISO: 800
9 more great photos from the Sun-Times staff
Keith Kristinnat tries to clear a manhole in a flooded portion of Ewing Avenue in Skokie, Friday, Feb. 14, 2025.
Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times
Nik Rosas wades in the water using trash bins to protect his feet in a flooded portion of Lyons street in Skokie, Friday, Feb. 14, 2025.
Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times
**Conclusion:**
The photo captures the devastating impact of the water main break in Skokie, and the struggles of the residents who had to navigate the flooded streets. It’s a powerful visual representation of the consequences of infrastructure failures and the importance of swift action to mitigate their effects.
**Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):**
* What was the cause of the water main break?
* How many homes were affected by the flooding?
* What measures are being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future?
Please note that these questions and answers are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only.
