Widespread storm damage prompts Monroe County disaster declaration

Widespread wind damage and power outages have prompted Monroe County officials to issue a disaster emergency declaration. Here’s what that means and how you can get help.

What is a local disaster emergency declaration?

Under state law, local officials can issue such a declaration “to activate the response and recovery aspects of all applicable local or interjurisdictional disaster emergency plans.” The declaration also authorizes “the furnishing of aid and assistance under the plans.”

Why did Monroe County officials issue a disaster declaration?

The declaration, signed by Monroe County Commissioner Julie Thomas, cites “excessive rain, wind damage, downed power lines and trees, and public structure damage, as well as life safety issues.”

The declaration calls everyone “called upon and directed to comply with necessary emergency measures to cooperate with public officials and disaster services forces in executing emergency operations plans, and to obey and comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers.”

The declaration was issued Tuesday and remains in effect for seven days.

Where can you report structural damage?

Monroe County Emergency Management urged people to report storm-related structural damage to Indiana 211, a 24-hour hotline that connects people with needed services.

Where can you get sheltering assistance?

If your home has suffered structural damage and you need sheltering assistance, emergency management urged people to contact Justin Baker, deputy director of Monroe County Emergency Management, at justinbaker@co.monroe.in.us or 812-349-2546.

Are cooling stations open?

Most cooling stations are not open today because of high call volumes and widespread damage. However, the Ellettsville Fire Department headquarters, at 5080 W. Ind. 46 is open.

People who do not have air conditioning and need to cool off can go there. Be aware, however, that roads may still be closed because of storm damage.

The stations do not provide food, showers or areas for sleeping. The stations will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Other cooling stations may be opened as temperatures rise. Check the Emergency Management webpage for updates.

Can you get insurance reimbursement for spoiled food?

You may be able to get some of the cost of your spoiled food reimbursed, according to the Insurance Information Institute, though it may depend on your policy and how much damage you incurred.

"Insurance companies will usually cover up to $500 of food that spoils from a power outage caused by a covered peril under standard homeowners insurance policies," the institute said on its website.

But there's a catch: If you have a deductible, you'd have to pay that first. That means if you've lost $200 worth of food, but your deductible is $500, which is what most policyholders carry, you won't be getting anything from your insurance company.

"Some insurers offer food spoilage coverage with a separate deductible for an additional premium," the institute said.

If you’re unsure about what coverage you have, contact your insurance agent.

This story may be updated.

Boris Ladwig can be reached at bladwig@heraldt.com.