Lisa Muellman, originally from Evergreen Park, found her first independent home in an apartment in Justice after years of couch surfing. Over the past five years, she transformed her space into a sanctuary filled with family photos, books, and personal touches. “It was my sanctuary,” she expressed.
On June 11, a tornado with wind speeds between 111 to 135 mph hit her building at 8045 and 8049 W. 83rd St., causing severe damage. The tornado left her and her neighbors with uncertain futures as they awaited decisions on building repairs or demolition by the owner and insurance companies. While the Red Cross offered immediate shelter, Muellman faced challenges in storing and moving her belongings. “I’m alive, but yeah, I’m leaving a lot behind,” she remarked, noting her need for help in organizing her possessions.
Severe storms persisted through June 17, affecting residents throughout the Chicago area. Alex Joves, executive director of the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security, reported that 676 residents claimed storm damage as of June 18. “Our communities experienced significant impacts from last week’s storms,” he stated.
The tornado that hit Hickory Hills near Muellman’s apartment was one of 17 in the region on June 11, according to the National Weather Service. Deputy Police Chief Fred Schuerg noted multiple 911 calls about the storm near Muellman’s building, indicating fallen ceilings, downed power lines, and lost electricity. One building had its roof and a third-floor wall blown off, while another lost the roof and third-floor ceilings. Fortunately, there were only minor injuries and no fatalities reported.
On June 12, as people assisted their relatives in moving out, significant damage was visible at the intersection of 83rd Street and Roberts Road. Prior to the tornadoes, a derecho had swept through with winds up to 85 mph, disrupting power for over 674,600 people in the Chicago area.
Muellman noted that many neighbors had already evacuated after the power outage the previous night. As she scrambled to find a temporary home, her landlord advised residents to find alternative housing for six months while repairs were made. However, Muellman was uncertain about the long-term stability of such arrangements and had moved in temporarily with a friend who had health concerns.
The lack of storage posed another challenge, as her current 5-by-10 unit could not accommodate everything. After assessing her belongings, she decided to leave 85% behind due to water damage and lack of space. She kept items such as her new couch, family photos, china, and essential clothes, letting go of things like her bed, clothes, a beloved turquoise cabinet, and many unread books.
Her mail was paused, and she awaited promised financial reimbursements, including a rent rebate and returned security deposit. James Lurquin, deputy code enforcement officer for Justice, suggested residents seek help from the Red Cross but mentioned uncertainties about demolishing or repairing the buildings. Each permit necessary for demolition could take three to five days to process.
Currently, temporary measures include tarps on the damaged structures while local and state officials, as well as organizations like the Red Cross, continue their efforts to offer assistance. They urge residents to seek both physical and mental health support, emphasizing the importance of addressing emotional recovery as well. Connie Esparza of the American Red Cross of Illinois invited residents to reach out for help by calling 1-800-733-2767.
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