Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle issued a disaster proclamation today for Cook County in response to storms that hit the region on September 17. Parts of Cook County experienced more than six inches of rainfall in less than 12 hours, leading to severe flooding and other storm damage. Burnham, Calumet City, Dolton, Harvey and South Holland were among the hardest hit municipalities in the County. 

By signing this proclamation, the County can pursue all available resources to assist communities and residents in their recovery efforts. 

“My team has seen firsthand the significant damage residents in the southland sustained during the September 17 storms,” said President Preckwinkle. “My administration continues to coordinate recovery efforts with impacted municipalities and will ensure we pursue all possible opportunities for additional assistance. This proclamation is another step to assist residents in the recovery from the storm’s impacts.” 

The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) monitored the needs of communities during the storm and assisted with recovery efforts. EMRS continues to coordinate recovery efforts and provide technical assistance and support in conducting damage assessments at the municipal level.  

Municipalities in Cook County have already received more than 1,200 reports of damage to homes and businesses from this event. These reports, combined with data collected by the City of Chicago for their jurisdiction, demonstrate the significant impact of this storm and associated flash flooding on the region.    

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