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Rep. Dell'Aquila Commends Governor DeWine for Issuing Proclamation Following Severe Storms in Northeast Ohio

August 9, 2024
Richard Dell'Aquila News

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dell’Aquila (D-Seven Hills) joined the Cuyahoga County House and Senate Delegation, as well as Rep. Daniel P. Troy (D-Willowick) in Lake County and Rep. Joe Miller (D-Amherst) in Lorain County to urgently request Governor DeWine to issue a proclamation declaring a state of emergency across Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Lorain Counties which were impacted by a severe weather system on Tuesday, August 6th, 2024. In addition, they were requesting FEMA Damage Assessment Teams to survey the impacted areas. 

This morning, Governor DeWine issued a proclamation to formally direct state agencies to be ready for further assistance to local communities.

“Tuesday’s disaster was a reminder to never take for granted the infrastructure we all depend upon to sustain our lives,” said Rep. Dell’Aquila. “Having personally experienced the storm, touring the district in the aftermath, and speaking with impacted constituents, I believe we are fortunate that the damage was not significantly worse.

Almost immediately, our local, county and state disaster preparedness officials and first responders stepped in to help. We at the statehouse are now working to seek urgent solutions and relief for impacted families and communities. It is critical that our local authorities log and submit every expense and loss caused by this storm.”

On Tuesday afternoon, a severe weather system swept through Northeast Ohio including instances of tornadic activity, high gusts of winds and severe thunderstorms. The National Weather Service confirmed four EF-1 tornadoes had touched down across multiple counties, leaving behind significant damage impacting local communities. This damage affected trees, homes, businesses, motor vehicles, and utility infrastructure.

In addition, the electric utility company FirstEnergy reported nearly 470K customers in northeast Ohio lost power. Additionally, it has been reported that as of the afternoon of Wednesday, August 8th, more than 300K customers will remain without power and the utility companies do not anticipate power restoration to many until August 14th. Power remains out for residential customers in Cuyahoga County, many of which include elderly and disabled residents. Businesses, including grocery stores and restaurants, anticipate significant losses due to Tuesday's severe storm.

A copy of the August 8th letter to Governor DeWine can be viewed here. Additionally, please see the attached resource sheet to assist impacted Northeast Ohio residents here.