File photo
File photo
Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a state disaster proclamation for four Illinois counties recently affected by flooding.
The declaration ensures that Grundy, Pike, Scott and Morgan counties can receive state support when it comes to assisting communities with fortifying local levees.
Pritzker also activated the Illinois National Guard to aid in the flood efforts. WSPY reported that close to 60 soldiers were called up, with 40 from Company D, 766th Brigade Engineer Battalion based in Bloomington.
The National Guard helped with sand bagging, sandbag placement and infrastructure support. A small group from the unit was activated to oversee team flood operations.
Given the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, the soldiers were tested for symptoms. They wore masks and practiced social distancing while carrying out their missions.
The deployment was intended to augment the Illinois Emergency Management Agency’s flood response along the Illinois River and other streams.
Alerts Sign-up