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Biden declares federal disaster in response to Cook County storms

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Updated  August 15, 2023 4:34pm CDT
Cook County
FOX 32 Chicago

Biden approves disaster declaration for Chicago area flooding

In response to the unprecedented storms that led to widespread flooding in Cook County a month ago, President Joe Biden has declared a federal disaster.

COOK COUNTY - President Joe Biden delivered some federal help to Chicago-area flood victims on Tuesday, signing a disaster declaration for Cook County to help people whose property was flooded during last month’s massive rainstorm.

The flood relief is needed after an epic downpour over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, with up to nine inches of rain falling in some parts of the Chicago area. The storm flooded thousands of homes and businesses and destroyed property.

Now, federal help is on the way.

"The president has signed a declaration that we know will bring needed resources to the people of our community," said Illinois Democratic Congressman Danny Davis at his West Side Chicago office on Tuesday.

Davis announced that President Biden has signed a disaster declaration for Cook County, making potentially thousands of people eligible for FEMA funds.

"Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured losses," said Davis.

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Hardest hit were western suburbs like Cicero and Berwyn, and Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, where up to nine inches of rain fell in a little more than 24 hours.

An Austin community activist says many residents are still without hot water, heaters and furnaces.

"Some people had their hot water tanks repaired, but then they went back out," said Stephen Robinson of the Northwest Austin Council. "So they’re going back and forth with this, and they don’t have the means to supply themselves with a new one."

But political officials also warned that with the federal money, Cook County residents should also be wary of scammers trying to get a piece of the action.

"In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance, using your name, address, and Social Security number that’s stolen from flood victims," said Democratic State Representative La Shawn K. Ford.

To apply for the FEMA funds, you can go to their website or call 1-800-621-FEMA, or download the FEMA app.

"They come out and make assessments," Davis said. "They don’t just take people’s word. They actually went to people's houses."