Watch CBS News

Gov. Rauner Seeks Aid For Businesses Hit By Recent Tornadoes

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner is seeking federal aid for residents and businesses in four counties recovering from a rare December tornado outbreak.

Rauner said he's asked the U.S. Small Business Administration for a disaster declaration that would open up low-interest loans for eligible residents and businesses in Christian, Macon, Montgomery and Sangamon counties.

The governor submitted his request after state emergency management officials found that 33 homes and one business sustained major damage in central Illinois' Christian County.

The county seat of Taylorville and neighboring Hewittville were hardest-hit by the December 1 storms that unleashed at least 23 tornadoes in Illinois.

The National Weather Service says an EF-3 tornado with winds up to 155 mph caused more than $4 million residential and commercial losses in Christian County.

Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.