Pritzker issues disaster proclamation for storm-hit counties

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker issued a disaster proclamation for various counties statewide on Friday in response to the July storms that tore through the Chicago area and beyond.

Heavy rainfall, high winds, flash flooding, and tornadoes affected Cook County, Henry County, Fulton County, St. Clair County, Washington County, Winnebago County, and Will County as severe storms passed from July 13 through July 16. Downed power lines and trees, which led to widespread outages and roadblocks, also impacted Illinoisans.

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The proclamation comes after the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) concluded that all local resources had been exhausted, prompting the need for state and federal intervention.

“Many areas across the state suffered extensive damages due to last month’s torrential rain, high winds, and flooding,” Pritzker said. “To support those impacted across the state, I have signed a disaster proclamation to mobilize every available resource, accelerating the recovery process and providing relief for our residents. I want to thank IEMA-OHS for their ongoing coordination.”

In response to the July tornadoes and storms, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle issued a disaster proclamation for portions of Cook County earlier this month .

All told, 32 tornadoes touched down in the National Weather Service Chicago County Warning Area. Pritzker’s request goes to President Joe Biden through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). If approved, disaster loans will become available.

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