Cook County Issues Disaster Proclamation for August 11 Storm Event
Thousands of residents impacted by tornadoes and severe storms
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle issued a disaster proclamation Friday, August 14, for Cook County in response to storms that hit the region on August 11, 2026. The County experienced a significant storm event, widespread severe straight-line winds, localized flooding, downed trees and power lines, road closures, structural damage, transportation disruptions and extensive utility outages across numerous areas. The National Weather Service confirmed three EF-1 tornados and destructive straight-line winds in Tinley Park, Orland Park, Country Club Hills, Homewood, Flossmoor, Glenwood, Lansing and other south suburban municipalities.
By signing this proclamation, the County can pursue all available resources to assist communities and residents in their recovery efforts.
“I’ve seen firsthand the significant challenges Cook County communities are facing in the wake of this week’s severe weather, and we will not leave them to navigate this recovery alone,” said President Preckwinkle. “Cook County is on the ground, working shoulder to shoulder with municipalities and our partners to assess damage, clear debris, coordinate critical resources and respond to urgent needs. We are committed to staying engaged for as long as it takes to help residents, businesses and neighborhoods recover, rebuild and move forward.”
The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) responded to the needs of communities during the storm and continues to assist with recovery efforts. EMRS is coordinating with local leadership, emergency management offices, first responders and public works to assess damage for a comprehensive response. Since the storm, EMRS has worked with more than 15 municipalities on wide-ranging efforts including fulfilling equipment requests for generators, excavators and portable light towers in addition to debris removal and road clearance in partnership with the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways. Collaboration continues with ComEd, American Red Cross and Salvation Army.
Cook County and EMRS are encouraging impacted residents to fill out the Resident Damage Survey online to report damages from this storm system by August 24. EMRS is working alongside state partners to collect and analyze all data to help determine what assistance and resources may be available to impacted residents.