Disaster assessment team touring flood damage in Chatham

A disaster assessment team will be touring flood-damaged areas in Chatham-Kent Wednesday to determine whether the municipality will be eligible for relief programs.

Homes and businesses in Chatham and Thamesville were swamped over the weekend as the Thames River, swollen from snowmelt and rainfall, broke its banks and rushed into streets and basements.

• Minister tours flood-ravaged Chatham-Kent, but can't confirm disaster assistance

• State of emergency in Chatham-Kent, Ont. with floodwaters rising overnight

Several people had to be rescued by the dive team from the Chatham Fire Department and were carried from their homes by boatback to dry land.

The municipalitydeclared a state of emergency and is still finalizing cleanup plans as the water recedes.

The team is scheduled to begin its assessment around 9 a.m.

• Here's what you need to know about applying for flood recovery assistance

If it determines damage to the area requires assistance, residents will be able to apply for the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians program, whichcovers emergency expenses and the costs of repairing or replacing essential items after a natural disaster.