June 23, 2017
June 23, 2017
Lt. Gov. Brian Calley today declared a “state of disaster” for Isabella and Midland counties after severe weather and intense rain struck the counties of Isabella and Midland, resulting in widespread flooding damage.
"Our state and local emergency response and volunteer services have been the backbone for responding to the extraordinary flooding and resulting damage,” Calley said. “I commend them for their work in protecting the public health and safety of our residents during this time. All state resources are being made available to assist with further recovery efforts.”
By declaring a “state of disaster,” the state of Michigan will make available all state resources in cooperation with local response and recovery efforts in the disaster area as outlined in the Michigan Emergency Management Plan. Calley's declaration authorizes the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) to coordinate state efforts.
Communities within Isabella and Midland counties have been severely affected by flooding, impacting hundreds of homes, businesses and public facilities and infrastructure. Public health and safety is a concern due to damaged structures and debris, contaminated flood water, increased emergency vehicle response times caused by road and bridge closures, and loss of electric power and utility services.
“We have been actively working with our local emergency management partners in all counties impacted by the severe storms and flooding,” said Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, deputy state director of emergency management and homeland security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “I have directed my staff to work closely with our communities so they can receive the needed resources to respond and recover from this incident.”
Both counties declared a “local state of emergency” on June 23, activating local emergency response and recovery plans. By requesting a governor’s declaration, these counties and their communities have determined local resources are insufficient to address the situation and state assistance is required to protect public health, safety and property to lessen or avert the threat of a crisis.
