In the wake of severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from July 13 to 16, 2024, FEMA is stepping in to support those affected across several Illinois counties.

FEMA Offers Crucial Assistance for Storm-Affected Residents

According to a press release from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, residents of Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago counties who suffered damage are being strongly encouraged to apply for assistance.

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FEMA’s assistance is designed to address serious needs and immediate housing issues following a devastating natural disaster.

What FEMA Can Provide

Eligible applicants may receive funds for temporary living arrangements, essential home repairs, and other critical necessities not covered by insurance. According to the FEMA press release, assistance is limited to primary residences, meaning second homes and vacation rentals do not qualify for support.

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The financial aid includes funds for lifesaving items like water and medical supplies, housing assistance for those displaced, and repairs for homes affected by the disaster. Additionally, residents can seek funds to replace personal property, cover increased childcare expenses, and repair or replace damaged vehicles.

How to Apply for Assistance

Residents with insurance should file their claims promptly, as FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for covered losses. If the insurance falls short, applicants may still be eligible for federal assistance.

To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App, or call 800-621-3362.

For further information on disaster recovery efforts in Illinois, visit FEMA’s disaster page. With FEMA’s help, affected residents can begin to rebuild their lives and restore their homes.

LOOK: The most expensive weather and climate disasters in recent decades

Stacker ranked the most expensive climate disasters by the billions since 1980 by the total cost of all damages, adjusted for inflation, based on 2021 data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The list starts with Hurricane Sally, which caused $7.3 billion in damages in 2020, and ends with a devastating 2005 hurricane that caused $170 billion in damage and killed at least 1,833 people. Keep reading to discover the 50 of the most expensive climate disasters in recent decades in the U.S.

Gallery Credit: KATELYN LEBOFF

LOOK: The most extreme temperatures in the history of every state

Stacker consulted 2021 data from the NOAA's State Climate Extremes Committee (SCEC) to illustrate the hottest and coldest temperatures ever recorded in each state. Each slide also reveals the all-time highest 24-hour precipitation record and all-time highest 24-hour snowfall.

Keep reading to find out individual state records in alphabetical order.

Gallery Credit: Anuradha Varanasi

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