County Wants Your Storm Photos and Videos

If you happened to take photos or video of the big storm that left a wake of destruction over the holiday weekend, you more than likely posted pics to social media.

Now, Suffolk County would love for you to share those with them.

The purpose: help local governments make the case to the feds that the storm caused so much damage that federal dollars would be needed to pay for cleanup.

So Suffolk County officials are asking residents and business owners affected by the powerful July 4th storms to report property damage through a new online Damage Self-Reporting Tool designed to help document the full extent of the destruction across the region.

The reporting effort is a partnership between the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services and New York State.

Officials said information submitted by residents will help the county and state build the strongest possible case for potential federal disaster assistance.

County officials stressed that completing the online form is not an application for financial aid and does not guarantee assistance.

Instead, the information will be used to create a comprehensive record of storm damage that could support future requests for federal relief programs.

Residents and business owners are encouraged to report all storm-related damage, even if it appears minor. Officials said every report helps provide a more accurate picture of the impact the severe winds and heavy rain had across Suffolk County.

Property owners can submit damage information online at https://arcg.is/0ybK4H0.

The county is urging everyone whose home or business sustained damage during the July 4 storm to complete the form as soon as possible.

Officials also emphasized that residents should submit a report even if they have homeowners or flood insurance. Insurance coverage does not affect the county's effort to document the overall scope of the damage.

In addition to collecting storm reports, Suffolk County is encouraging residents interested in helping during future emergencies to consider volunteering.

Those interested in joining the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) can call 631-852-4900 or email frescert@suffolkcountyny.gov for information about upcoming training opportunities.

Residents who would like to serve with their local fire department or EMS agency can contact their local organization directly or visit www.suffolksbravest.com for additional information on volunteer opportunities.