Marquette, Mich. (WZMQ) – Damage reports are needed from residents after rapid spring snowmelt caused flooding and damage across the central and western portions of the Upper Peninsula. Residents are encouraged to document and report any damage caused to homes or businesses either online or by calling 211.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency in Alger, Baraga, Dickinson, Iron, Marquette, and Ontonagon counties. Water is affecting roads, bridges, utilities, and other infrastructure.
“There may be financial assistance available to help home and business owners repair, clean up, and recover from this flood event,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the Michigan State Police (MSP) Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (EMHSD). “That funding may also be used to help prevent something like this from happening again in the future.”
As local officials, emergency managers, and state police continue to assess the damage and provide needed resources, all residents and business owners in the 8 affected counties and those in neighboring Delta, Dickinson, Keweenaw, and Menominee counties are asked to take pictures and report any damage caused by this rapid spring snowmelt event.
“To determine exactly what help may be available, the state needs a clear picture of the situation,” said Marquette County Emergency Manager Brian Hummel. “It’s important that all damage is reported, no matter how big or small. We ask everyone to join together in this effort for the greater good of all our neighbors in the region.”
