Gov. Gretchen Whitmer activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) today due to rising water levels at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex on the Cheboygan River.
"This morning, I'm activating the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate state efforts around the Cheboygan Dam," said Governor Whitmer. "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."
Over the past 24 hours, the river has risen to 18 inches below the top of the Cheboygan Dam. If water levels reach 12 inches below the crest of the dam, the response will expand to include additional public safety measures.
A large piece of ice also damaged safety wire near the dam. As a result, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has closed access points upstream and downstream of the dam.
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The National Weather Service said an active pattern over the past month has resulted in above-average snowpack and rain (about 5 inches above average liquid equivalent since March 1) across Cheboygan County.
Snowmelt from a major mid-March winter storm that brought 1 to 2 feet of snow to the county, combined with steady rain and freezing rain in recent weeks, has driven high flows along the Cheboygan River and upstream lakes.
Forecasters said warmer temperatures expected this weekend, along with rain forecast into the middle of next week, could further increase water flows.
State and federal officials are exploring additional ways to increase outflow from the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex, including the possibility of refiring a previously damaged hydroelectric generator.
The complex includes the Cheboygan Lock and Dam and a privately owned hydroelectric facility. It is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
The SEOC was activated at 10 a.m., according to the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD). SEOC personnel are monitoring the situation and working with state and local officials, as well as private-sector partners, to address any resource needs.
MSP/EMHSD district coordinators are engaged with local emergency management officials. The SEOC stands ready to fulfill resource requests as needed. The SEOC, located in Dimondale and overseen by MSP/EMHSD, assists local governments and state agencies in coordinating response and recovery efforts.
For more information on the current SEOC activation follow MSP/EMHSD on
X and
Facebook. For tips on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit
www.michigan.gov/miready.
