The Trump administration through Federal Emergency Management Agency has officially denied the state’s appeal for a major disaster declaration following severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding that impacted southwest suburbs and the Southwest Side from August 16–19, 2025.
In a letter dated February 7, 2026, FEMA reaffirmed its initial decision, stating that supplemental federal assistance under the Stafford Act is not warranted for this incident. This denial specifically applies to the state’s request for Individual Assistance for residents in Boone, Cook, Kane, McHenry, and Will counties.
The state’s appeal, submitted on November 21, 2025, followed months of coordination between local, state, and federal officials, including joint Preliminary Damage Assessments and a supplemental round of assessments in early November to capture the full scope of the damage. The August 16–19 storm system caused substantial flooding, significant property damage, widespread power outages, and blocked roadways for homeowners and businesses across Northern Illinois.
Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (D-4th) criticized the decision.
“The Trump administration’s denial of a major disaster declaration for Illinois is a politically motivated decision to punish a blue state and leave families without the extra help they need.
“It’s a continuation of Trump’s approach to federal assistance: pick winners and losers based on what direction a state swung in the presidential election. The people of California, Maryland, and now Illinois, all impacted by devastating natural disasters, are left to pick up the pieces without the backing of the federal government.
“Chicago’s Southwest Side, a primarily Latino community, was hit hardest by flooding due to the summer storms of 2025. I refuse to let Illinois families be punished for political revenge. I stand ready to work with Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson to support the Southwest Side to find alternative ways to ensure homes are safe and free of mold and other contaminants.”
Gov. JB Pritzker was equally critical.
“Let’s call this what this is: a politically motivated decision that punishes thousands of Illinois families in a critical moment of need. Playing politics with disaster relief funding is a new low, even for the Trump Administration. Ignoring the realities of widespread damage from the August 2025 severe storms, speaks volumes about the federal government’s vindictive priorities and complete disregard for American livelihoods.”
Joining the chorus of disapproval was Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
“Today, Cook County learned that the federal government has denied Illinois’ appeal for disaster assistance following the severe storms and flooding that struck our region in August 2025.
“This decision further confirms the Trump administration’s disregard for the fundamental responsibilities of government and undermines the very purpose of disaster assistance. Our communities suffered real and lasting harm, yet the federal government continues to turn its back when help is needed most. This is unacceptable and makes recovery harder for those who can least afford it.
“My administration will step up where the federal government falls short. We will continue working with the State of Illinois and our local partners to identify every available resource, coordinate every effort and fight for the support our communities need to recover and rebuild.”
“It is incredibly disappointing that an incident of this magnitude, which upended the lives of thousands of Illinoisans, was not declared a major disaster,” said the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security Acting Director Theodore “Ted” Berger. “The scope of the damage validated through our joint assessments was significant. While this federal support will not be forthcoming, we will continue to work with local emergency management partners to support their ongoing efforts to assist our communities in their long-term recovery.”