Pritzker issues disaster proclamation after storms, flooding in three Illinois counties

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — Gov. JB Pritzker on Thursday issued a state disaster proclamation for Cook, Jersey and Calhoun counties after severe storms and flooding late last month caused extensive damage.

The proclamation, covering the period of July 25–28, allows state resources to be directed toward local response and long-term recovery.

“Illinois families and communities are still facing the impacts of these devastating storms,” Pritzker said in a statement. “With this proclamation, we are making sure every tool at the state’s disposal is available to support recovery.”

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS), working with local officials and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, conducted preliminary damage assessments Aug. 11–17 that confirmed widespread damage.

“This disaster proclamation allows us to expand assistance and keep recovery operations moving forward,” IEMA-OHS Acting Director Ted Berger said.

The storms caused flooding that damaged homes and businesses, knocked out power, blocked roadways and disrupted transportation networks.

The proclamation makes additional state resources available for recovery, and Pritzker has directed IEMA-OHS to continue coordinating with federal officials to determine if Illinois qualifies for federal disaster aid.