LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency for the city of Lansing, Allegan County, and Baraga County after a severe weather system on May 15 brought 11 tornadoes, damaging winds, heavy rain, and flash flooding to communities across the state.
“These storms left a mark on Michigan especially in our capital city and in Allegan and Baraga counties,” Whitmer said. “After major damage to infrastructure and essential services, we’re stepping in to support local recovery efforts and help these communities get back on their feet. Michigan is no stranger to tough weather, and we always come back stronger.”
In Baraga County, up to four inches of overnight rainfall caused flash flooding. Washed-out roads and overflow from the Village of L’Anse Wastewater Treatment Plant strained local resources. The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community—part of the Lake Superior Band of Chippewa Indians—is included in the county’s declaration, ensuring coverage for damage sustained on Tribal lands.
The declaration makes state resources available to support local response and recovery efforts. It may also allow access to financial assistance through Section 19 of Public Act 390 of 1976, which governs the Disaster and Emergency Contingency Fund. These funds help to cover eligible response and recovery costs when local resources are exhausted.
“We’ve been working with the affected communities since the storms first hit,” said Captain Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division. “Our priority is to ensure they have the support and resources needed. We’ll continue to coordinate with local leaders, state agencies, and federal partners to help these communities navigate the recovery process.”
Local officials formally requested assistance after determining the damage exceeded their response capacity.