PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Pennsylvania officials are laying out its recovery phase for people impacted by Tropical Depression Ida, which tore across the region Wednesday night with a fury.
Several tornado warnings were issued, and many different pockets — from Center City to Manayunk to Upper Darby — are still submerged from flash floods.
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According to Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Randy Padfield, the recovery process starts with county and municipality workers assessing the damage. This is necessary as the state looks to seek federal aid.
“This process has many pieces but starts with meeting the immediate needs that individuals or families have for shelter, temporary housing, food and security,” he added. “It is critical that if you’ve been impacted by this event that you report your damages to your local emergency management coordinator or the county emergency management office.”
The state did the same back in July when a “100-year flood” slammed southeastern Pennsylvania, mostly in Bucks County.
Ida reportedly brought 5 to 8 inches of rain across parts of the state within a short period of time. Several waterways breached previous crest records, including the East Branch of the Brandywine, the Brandywine, the Perkiomen, and the Schuylkill rivers.
When it comes to recovery, Padfield said people should contact their insurance company, take pictures of any damage and keep receipts of items they purchased.
“Above all, we want those affected to know that there are many individuals working at all levels of government and within numerous organizations to hasten the recovery,” he assured.
About 120 Pennsylvania National Guard members remain on-site to assist in local rescue operations. The governor also signed a disaster emergency proclamation, which allows state agencies to more easily distribute resources and respond to the impact.
Those struggling with emotional stress from the storm can call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline, which is available 24 hours a day, at 1-800-985-5990.