The State Emergency Operations Center was activated in northern Lower Michigan Friday due to rising water levels at the Cheboygan Dam.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer activated the State Emergency Operations Center on April 10.
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“This morning, I’m activating the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate state efforts around the Cheboygan Dam,” Whitmer said in a statement Friday. “Record snowfall last month and recent rain have elevated water levels, which could lead to possible flooding for local communities. State officials have been closely monitoring water levels all week, and there’s a comprehensive plan in place to protect Michiganders and property. Activating the SEOC will help support local communities with the resources they need to keep people safe.”
According to Michigan State Police, the river rose to 18 inches below the top of the Cheboygan Dam within the last 24 hours.
If water levels reach 12 inches below the crest of the dam, the response will expand to include additional public safety measures, said state police.
A large piece of ice also damaged safety wire near the dam, leading the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to close access points upstream and downstream of the dam.
Police are urging the public to sign up for local alerts to stay informed on the latest news and information. You can sign up for local alerts here.
An active pattern over the past month has resulted in above-average snowpack and rain across Cheboygan County, according to the National Weather Service.
The snowmelt from the mid-March winter storm brought 1 to 2 feet of snow to the county, along with rain and freezing rain in the recent weeks, causing high flows along the Cheboygan River and upstream lakes.
Warmer temperatures are expected this weekend across Michigan, along with rain expected into the middle of next week, which could further increase water flows.
State and federal officials are looking at ways to increase outflow from the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex, including the possibility of refiring a previously damaged hydroelectric generator.
The State Emergency Operations Center was activated at 10 a.m. on April 10. Personnel there are monitoring the situation and working with state and local officials and private-sector partners to address any resource needs.