Additional damage assessments scheduled in Cass County following tornado
Three assessment teams will be deployed and will move between affected jurisdictions throughout the day Tuesday and Wednesday. Residents in impacted areas may see officials visiting neighborhoods to visually assess damage from public rights-of-way or, in some cases, briefly approaching properties to document storm impacts.
Cass County officials are advising residents in storm-impacted areas that additional damage assessments will take place today, Tuesday, March 17, and Wednesday, March 18, as part of a joint effort involving local, state and federal agencies.
Following the severe storms and tornado that struck southwest Michigan on March 6, local officials conducted preliminary damage assessments and determined that damage to homes and businesses in Cass County and neighboring areas was significant. As a result, a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment has been initiated to further evaluate impacts to private residences and businesses.
The assessment teams will include representatives from local jurisdictions, the State of Michigan, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Small Business Administration and township officials. These teams will travel through impacted areas to verify damage and gather information needed to determine whether additional disaster assistance may be available.
Three assessment teams will be deployed and will move between affected jurisdictions throughout the two-day period. Residents in impacted areas may see officials visiting neighborhoods to visually assess damage from public rights-of-way or, in some cases, briefly approaching properties to document storm impacts.
Homeowners do not need to take any action for these assessments, and the visits are intended only to document damage conditions. Assessment teams will not ask for personal financial information or require residents to complete applications during these visits.
Cass County officials appreciate residents’ patience and cooperation as these assessments take place. The information gathered will help determine the level of disaster assistance that may be available to support recovery efforts for affected communities.
Residents with questions may contact Cass County Emergency Management at 269-445-1249 for additional information.
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