Biden Approves Major Disaster Declaration For Illinois

President Joe Biden has issued a major disaster declaration for several counties in Illinois including Will County following severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from July 13 to July 16, 2024.

The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in the counties of Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago.

According the National Weather Service, with 32 tornadoes, this storm breaks the previous daily record for tornadoes in our forecast area. This record was originally 22, set during the June 30, 2014 “Double Derecho” event and later tied by March 31, 2023 Tornado Outbreak.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Mr. Darrin Ricketts of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App.