Officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are likely to be conducting flood damage assessments in Watseka tomorrow (Thurs). Preliminary damage assessments will be compiled. It's another step toward the effort to bring federal help following the flooding in June and July.

Watseka Mayor Bob Harwood says "this is not a guarantee federal help will result, but it's what we wanted --- to get FEMA here to take a look."

FEMA, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, and local personnel will be properly identified when they arrive at people's homes to do preliminary damage assessments as a result of the flood.

The assessments are another step in determining whether there will be any assistance for individuals.

Lt. Governor Evelyn Sanguinetti made a stop in Watseka (Tues), praising the local response.......

"I'm here to assess damage and just thank everyone for coming together with that Midwest spirit of rebuilding and working together as a team," Sanguinetti said.

Governor Bruce Rauner (Monday) issued a Disaster Proclamation for 23 counties, including Iroquois, Grundy and Vermilion. Rauner requested assistance from FEMA to gather damage assessment details.

The City of Watseka, meanwhile, is conducting its own damage assessment of individual homes for compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. Most homes will be inspected individually.

94.1 WGFA