Governor JB Pritzker visited Jefferson and Effingham County on Wednesday to meet with residents, first responders and emergency management officials as recovery efforts continue following the deadly June 21st tornado.
The tornado claimed two lives and caused extensive damage in the Dix and Texico areas. Earlier this week, Pritzker issued a state disaster proclamation for Jefferson and Effingham County, making additional state resources available to assist with debris removal, damage assessments and ongoing recovery efforts.
The proclamation also positions the state to seek additional state and federal disaster assistance as officials continue evaluating storm damage.
Pritzker’s visit came as Illinois continues to recover from months of severe weather, including tornadoes, flooding, hail and damaging winds. According to the National Weather Service, approximately 173 tornadoes have been confirmed in Illinois this year, the most of any state.
The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security will continue coordinating recovery efforts with local governments and federal partners as affected communities rebuild.