CHEBOYGAN, Mich. – Local and state businesses had been on excessive alert Friday after a state of emergency was declared in Cheboygan, following rising water levels close to a dam that raised considerations about potential flooding.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer activated the state’s Emergency Operations Center to coordinate response efforts amongst native, state, and federal businesses.
The transfer comes after the river rose to inside 18 inches of the highest of the Cheboygan Dam over the previous 24 hours.
Officials mentioned the emergency declaration ensures native leaders have entry to further state assets and will open the door for federal help if circumstances worsen.
Response groups are exploring methods to extend water outflow and cut back strain on the dam.
That contains evaluating whether or not a beforehand broken hydroelectric generator will be introduced again on-line to assist handle water levels.
“This step helps position our community to stay ahead of any potential challenges,” mentioned state Rep. Cam Cavitt, a Republican from Cheboygan.
He mentioned native crews are already engaged on the bottom, with assist from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, that are helping with monitoring and response efforts.
Cavitt mentioned he stays in shut contact with native officers and can proceed to offer updates as extra info turns into obtainable.
Residents in want of help can contact Cavitt’s workplace at 517-373-0833.
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