Chicago City Wire

Teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS), and local staff from Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications will begin visiting areas in Chicago affected by flooding between July 25 and 28. These preliminary damage assessment (PDA) teams will be in the city from Wednesday, August 13 through Sunday, August 17.

The assessments follow disaster proclamations issued last week by City of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. The proclamations allow both the city and county to seek additional resources for residents impacted by the recent storms.

According to officials, residents who experienced damage should participate in these reviews, as they are necessary for the state of Illinois to request federal disaster recovery assistance. The joint PDAs are intended to determine whether enough damage occurred to qualify for a state disaster proclamation or federal support through FEMA or SBA programs.

“Joint PDAs will help all of us find out if there was enough damage to qualify for a state disaster proclamation as well as FEMA or U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) assistance. While you might think an SBA loan isn’t for you, those low-interest and long-term loans can help homeowners and renters with disaster recovery costs,” stated officials.

PDA team members will carry photo identification, will not enter homes, do not use contractors, and never ask for payment during their visits. Residents are advised to be aware of potential scams related to disasters; more information is available at https://ready.illinois.gov/after/beware-of-scams.html and https://www.fema.gov/about/offices/security/disaster-fraud.

Bilingual staff will be part of the teams working across both city and county areas. Data collected is used only for qualifying Chicago and Cook County for assistance programs; not every resident may receive a visit from a team member.

Residents are also encouraged to check with their insurance providers about coverage details following flood-related damages. Those who have not yet reported ‘Water in Basement’ incidents should call 3-1-1 promptly.

City agencies continue coordinating with non-profit organizations to address community needs after the flood event. Recovery efforts led by OEMC, EMRS, IEMA, and other partners remain ongoing as authorities pursue all available avenues for disaster aid.