CHICAGO – In response to severe weather in Illinois during the last few weeks, State Senator Javier Cervantes announced that the governor signed a new disaster proclamation that will speed up resources and support to the communities impacted by flooding and storm damage.

“Residents across the state and in my district have been heavily impacted by the storm damage over the last few weeks,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “We need to get resources on the ground for Illinois residents and ensure that we are providing as much relief as we can to deal with these extraneous circumstances.”

On July 2, severe storms impacted the state, with Chicago and Cook County bearing the brunt of some of the heaviest rainfall on record. Up to nine inches of rain fell in some parts of the area, causing significant flooding on area roadways and in thousands of basements across the city and suburbs.

According to the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications, the city’s 311 service received more than 2,800 complaints related to basement, street and viaduct flooding throughout the day on July 2. This was the second time in four days severe thunderstorms swept through parts of Chicago and suburban Cicero.

“Many residents in our community felt the impact of the severe weather and we need to ensure residents that Illinois is here to support them in overcoming these disasters,” Cervantes said. “I am glad the governor designated this a disaster as it shows residents that Illinois is taking this seriously by speeding up support to our residents.”

Governor J.B. Pritzker issued a disaster proclamation on Tuesday. Residents impacted by the severe weather can find resources on flooded basement damage, flood preparedness, and more.

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