Governor Declares Coles And Shelby Counties Disaster Areas

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today declared Coles and Shelby counties disaster areas.

The severe weather system moved through central Illinois on the evening of June 1, 1999 inflicting heavy damage to homes and businesses. The storm system produced tornadoes, flooding and flash flooding throughout Coles and Shelby counties.

"Widespread tornado damage occurred in Tower Hill, Henton, Stewardson and Westervelt in Shelby County and flash flooding occurred in Mattoon and other areas of Coles County, "Ryan said. "This disaster declaration will speed up recovery efforts in these communities and authorize state agencies to assist in their clean-up."

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is coordinating the state's response in Coles and Shelby counties. Assistance is being provided by the Illinois State Police, Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Illinois Department of Corrections; Illinois Commerce Commission; Illinois Department of Public Health; Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the American Red Cross.

The declaration also makes it possible for damage assessments to be conducted to determine if additional assistance is necessary.