CalexicoChronicle.com
Imperial County, California, has suffered significant property damage in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Hilary, prompting calls for federal disaster assistance. Despite receiving approximately $9.3 million in property damage during the storm, what stands out is the startling statistic that Imperial County ranks as the second-highest county in terms of property damage per capita, with an average of $51 per resident.
Imperial County Fire Chief and Office and Office of Emergency Services Coordinator David Lantzer expressed surprise at these numbers during a recent report to the Imperial City Council. He highlighted that around ten counties in total were affected by the storm, and they are collectively seeking a federal disaster declaration to secure federal funding for recovery efforts.
Imperial County is one of nine counties in California, including Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Siskiyou, and Ventura counties, appealing to the Biden administration for assistance. The storm’s impact in the region was severe, with 49 flash-flooding warnings issued. The affected communities are now awaiting a decision from Washington, D.C. to provide the necessary aid for recovery.