Cook County issues disaster declaration after July derecho
After a record 32 tornadoes struck the Chicago area in mid-July, Cook County declared a disaster to help local communities recover.
COOK COUNTY, Illinois. – In response to the record number of tornadoes that hit the Chicago area in mid-July, Cook County declared a state of emergency on Monday.
A storm, officially classified as a derecho, swept through northern Illinois and Indiana on July 15, producing a total of 32 tornadoes, setting a new record for tornadoes in a single day or event in the NWS Chicago forecast area.
Cook County experienced 16 tornadoes that caused significant damage to public and private property. Broadview, Chicago, Dolton, Flossmoor, Harvey and Robbins were among the hardest hit communities in Cook County.
“Cook County residents suffered significant damage from the severe storms that struck our community on July 14 and 15,” said Toni Preckwinkle, President of the Cook County Board. “My administration continues to coordinate recovery efforts with affected communities and will ensure we pursue every possible avenue for additional assistance. This proclamation is another step to help residents recover from the impacts of the storms.”
Final count: This is how many tornadoes hit Chicago and the surrounding area on July 15
On the evening of July 15, a massive thunderstorm complex swept through the Chicago area, bringing widespread destructive winds and a record 31 tornadoes.
According to Preckwinkle, local authorities have reported damage and relief costs totaling more than $5 million. The county’s emergency operations center’s relief and recovery efforts after the storm lasted several days.
The proclamation will help the county support communities in their recovery efforts. The county will also work with state and federal agencies to further assess the damage.
