FEMA rejects Illinois' appeal for major disaster relief after August storms hit Chicago area

Monday, February 9, 2026
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Illinois families hit hard by storms last August will not get extra federal help.

Video captured some of the damage.



The Federal Emergency Management Agency has denied the state's appeal for a major disaster declaration for Boone, Cook, Kane, McHenry, and Will counties.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker on Monday called it a politically motivated decision that punishes thousands of families.



State officials vowed to continue supporting local recovery efforts.
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