Williamson County shifts focus from tornado response to long-term recovery

Marion, Ill. (KBSI) — Williamson County officials say they are shifting from emergency response to long-term recovery efforts following the EF-4 tornado that struck south of Marion on Friday, May 16.

The tornado, which carved a 17-mile path through the county, destroyed 21 properties and damaged dozens more. Two structures remain inaccessible, officials said.

Now, as debris cleanup continues, the county is focusing on identifying unmet needs and getting assistance to those hit hardest.

“A lot of it’s going to be financial assistance for those that are uninsured or underinsured,” said Brian Burgess, director of the Williamson County Emergency Management Agency. “We ask anybody who is affected to complete the IEMA self-assessment survey because that helps us get those numbers back. Once we get those numbers back, then that helps us know how much impact we’ve had and where we can target our resources from those partners. “

Burgess said the county’s long-term recovery group will meet Wednesday to begin coordinating efforts.

For residents like Brad Roberts, recovery is about more than repairing physical damage — it’s also about helping neighbors.

Roberts and his wife sheltered inside their home during the tornado. When they emerged, they found damage to their roof, patio and backyard — and nearby homes in even worse shape.

“We felt joyful that we were safe, but we felt distraught that neighbors were in need,” Roberts said. “So we immediately checked on the neighbors across the road to see how they were doing.”

Burgess said anyone wishing to volunteer should register through the volunteer reception center, located at 211 East Boulevard Street in Marion, to ensure efforts are coordinated and effective.