Gov. Pritzker Declares Disaster After Severe Storms and Flooding in Three Illinois Counties (Springfield, IL) – Governor JB Pritzker has issued a state disaster proclamation in response to severe storms and flooding that swept through Cook, Jersey, and Calhoun Counties between July 25 and 28, leaving behind widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
The declaration, announced Friday, allows the state to mobilize additional resources to support local governments and residents during recovery efforts.
“Illinois families and communities are still facing the impacts of these devastating storms,” Pritzker said. “With this proclamation, we are making sure every tool at the state’s disposal is available to support recovery. Our administration will continue working alongside local leaders and federal partners to ensure impacted residents and businesses get the resources they need.”
The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS), along with local officials and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), conducted joint damage assessments earlier this month. Between Aug. 11 and 17, teams confirmed widespread flooding damage, extended power outages, and transportation disruptions that put tremendous strain on communities.
“The damage assessments confirmed the tremendous strain these storms have placed on our counties,” said IEMA-OHS Acting Director Theodore (Ted) Berger. “This disaster proclamation allows us to expand assistance and keep recovery operations moving forward. Our teams remain committed to working hand-in-hand with local governments to restore essential services and help residents rebuild.”
The storm system caused extensive flooding, forcing road closures and cutting off access to neighborhoods. Prolonged power outages compounded the challenges for homeowners and businesses, while debris left many transportation routes impassable.
With the proclamation in place, additional state personnel and resources can be deployed to assist affected communities. Pritzker has also directed IEMA-OHS to continue working with federal officials to determine whether Illinois qualifies for federal disaster assistance through FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The disaster declaration took effect immediately.
Gov. Pritzker Declares Disaster After Severe Storms and Flooding in Three Illinois Counties
