April 10, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2026
Contact: Press@Michigan.gov
Gov. Whitmer Declares State of Emergency for Cheboygan County Amid Rising Water Levels
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Cheboygan County due to rising water levels at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex on the Cheboygan River.
“Today, I’m declaring a State of Emergency in Cheboygan County to coordinate ongoing work around the Cheboygan Dam,” said Governor Whitmer. “Significant snowfall and recent rain have raised water levels, which could lead to possible flooding for areas downstream of the dam. Water levels are below the crest of the dam, but conditions could change quickly with more rain coming. This emergency declaration will help local, state, and federal officials protect Michiganders and property. The state of Michigan will continue to coordinate with local governments. Thank you to the first responders who are working to keep people safe. To everyone in Cheboygan, please stay updated and follow guidance from your local emergency manager. Michiganders are tough, and we will get through this together.”
Over the past 24 hours, the river has risen to 18 inches below the top of the Cheboygan Dam. Officials are closely monitoring conditions and working with the private sector to increase water flow through the dam.
By declaring a state of emergency, the governor has authorized the use of all available state resources to assist local response and recovery operations in the affected county.
The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) is coordinating the state’s emergency response through the State Emergency Operations Center.
The declaration also allows eligible communities to seek financial assistance under Section 19 of Michigan’s Emergency Management Act, Public Act 390 of 1976, as amended. The funding helps local governments cover emergency response costs and repair public infrastructure damaged by the storms.
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.
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