Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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March 19, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 19, 2019
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer today declared a state of emergency for Newaygo County after the county requested state assistance to address the impacts of heavy rainfall and snowmelt, which resulted in widespread flooding. – LANSING, Mich.
“As Newaygo County continues to deal with the effects of severe flooding, we are doing all we can to ensure the health and safety of our residents,” Whitmer said. “By signing this declaration, the state can offer even more resources to assist the county’s efforts.”
By declaring a state of emergency, Whitmer has made available all state resources in cooperation with local response and recovery efforts in the designated area. The declaration authorizes the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) to coordinate state efforts above and beyond what MSP/EMHSD has already been doing in conjunction with local agencies.
“Our staff have been working closely with Newaygo County officials throughout this incident,” said Capt. Emmitt McGowan, deputy state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “We will continue to partner with the county and make certain all needs are being met as the community recovers.”
On March 14, heavy rains and melting snow resulted in widespread flooding, which damaged homes, displaced residents and washed out roadways. The county formally requested assistance on March 15.
The county of Newaygo declared a local state of emergency on March 15, which activates local emergency response and recovery plans. By requesting a governor’s declaration, the county has determined local resources are insufficient to address the situation and state assistance is required to protect the health, safety and property to lessen or avert the threat of a crisis.
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