Michigan State of Emergency: Monitoring Water Levels at Cheboygan Dam and Lock Complex
The water levels around the Cheboygan Dam and Lock complex in Northern Michigan are being closely monitored by Michigan officials. The rising water levels have prompted a safety approach called "Ready, Set, Go." Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency due to the elevated water levels caused by record snowfall and recent rain. The State Emergency Operations Center has been activated to support local communities and ensure the safety of residents and property. A comprehensive plan is in place to protect Michiganders, and a new website has been launched to provide updates on the dam.
As of Monday, April 13, the water levels have reached the "READY" mark, indicating that it is 12 inches below the top of the dam and rising at a rate of 3 inches or more per day. The Cheboygan County Sheriff's Office has provided guidance for those between the Cheboygan DNR Dam and Lake Huron. On Sunday, April 12, the US-23 bascule bridge in Cheboygan was raised to protect against potential damage from debris and ensure the safety of vehicle occupants and pedestrians. Traffic will be detoured to the Lincoln Avenue Bridge during the closure, with no set timeline for reopening the US-23 bascule bridge.
DNR crews have activated five pumps to divert water around the Cheboygan Dam and Lock complex. All dam gates on the DNR-managed portion are fully open, and additional pumps are being procured to increase capacity. Efforts are underway to work with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to explore options to reopen a hydroelectric generation station at the dam site. Work crews have placed sandbags around the Cheboygan Lock and Dam to prevent dam failure to the fullest extent possible.
Governor Whitmer's declaration of a state of emergency for Cheboygan County authorizes the use of all available state resources to assist in response and recovery operations. The state's emergency operations center has been activated to coordinate efforts to address the rising water levels. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
In conclusion, the State of Michigan is actively working to address the rising water levels around the Cheboygan Dam and Lock complex. The safety of residents and property is a top priority, and measures are being taken to mitigate the potential impact of flooding on local communities. Stay informed through the state's new website for updates on the dam complex.