April 23, 2026
Following recent flooding and damage from rain, snowmelt and severe weather, including ice and tornadoes, across all 83 Michigan counties, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources advises outdoor enthusiasts to “know before you go” and exercise caution when visiting DNR-managed facilities.
DNR crews are evaluating state park sites and trails to assess damage and determine whether they should remain temporarily closed or be reopened following the recent series of weather events.
On Tuesday, April 14, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) statewide to monitor weather-related events, including the emergency at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex.
“With the upcoming weekend and milder weather ahead, we want to ensure all visitors are informed and have the latest information on closures and safety,” said Kristen Kosick, DNR Parks and Recreation Division chief. “Since these historic weather events began, crews have been working around the clock to assess damage and determine which sites are safe to reopen.”
Before you go
Access to boating access sites, state parks, trails, state forest campgrounds and other DNR-managed facilities may be limited due to flooding and other damage caused by the severe weather. Find up-to-date closures by visiting Michigan.gov/DNRClosures and searching "recent flooding."
During any visit to a DNR-managed facility or trail, watch for downed trees and branches blocking trails and roads, as well as signs of flooding.
Other need-to-know information
Here are additional tips from the DNR and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for dealing with standing or flowing spring floodwaters:
• Resist the urge to fish, explore or put a watercraft in floodwaters or swollen rivers. Higher waters can cause fast-flowing currents, deeper and colder water, unpredictable conditions and more debris floating under the water’s surface, especially on rivers.
• Walking or riding on flooded or saturated trails can cause unnecessary resource damage.
• Do not walk, wade or try to swim in floodwaters; they may be contaminated with bacteria, hazardous waste or chemicals.
• Floodwaters may cover live, downed electrical lines which could cause a fatal shock.
• Stay away from lakes and rivers when water is high. With soft ground, you can lose your footing and slip into water.
The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) activated the Joint Information Center as the source of state agency information dissemination on the current SEOC activation. Visit Michigan.gov/AprilStorms to find more information. Sign up to receive MSP and SEOC news releases and follow MSP/EMHSD on Facebook and X.
