Manhattan Opens Meeting Room at Village Hall as Cooling and Charging Hub

The meeting room is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for those without power after Monday night’s massive storm.

July 16, 2024 11:38 AM CDT

MANHATTAN, IL — Village officials are looking to help residents who need a cool place with electricity.

Officials opened the Village Hall meeting room, 260 Market Place, as a cooling and charging center Tuesday, July 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ComEd reports that more than 750 customers remained without power as of 11:30 a.m., down from 1,000 just before 11 a.m.

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“Last night’s storms caused quite the fury! With widespread power outages in our village, we understand that many of you are facing challenges today,” officials said on social media. “Whether you need a place to cool off from the heat or charge your devices, our doors are open to you. Please come by if you need assistance or just a comfortable place to sit for a moment.”

First responders are on the ground in town responding to calls for downed power lines and trees, severe storm damage, blocked roads and more.

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Extensive property damage hit the Ranch Oaks subdivision in Manhattan Township, leaving residents without power for an extended period of time, according to the Manhattan Fire Protection District. Three homes sustained significant damage from falling trees, while other homes, structures and vehicles in the subdivision sustained moderate damage.

Power lines and trees are down throughout Manhattan and Wilton Center. Staff from ComEd, Manhattan Township and the Village of Manhattan are managing cleanup efforts.

No injuries were reported among civilians or firefighters, fire officials said.

Residents are encouraged to avoid power lines and downed trees. Residents are advised to avoid damaged areas. Please stay away from these areas and follow road closure signage to allow access for first responders.

An emergency response by several local agencies is underway in the affected areas.

In addition to last night’s heavy rain, Will County is under a heat advisory Tuesday, with temperatures expected to rise by midday. Cooling centers are available throughout Will County at local municipalities. Find a list of cooling centers online.