ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – One week after major thunderstorms swept the Upper Peninsula, several counties are slowly beginning to return to normal operations. However, officials say flooding concerns still exist for certain areas.
Throughout the City of Escanaba, much of the flooding on roadways and parking lots has now drained. Last week, flooded runways caused the Delta County Airport to cancel all outgoing flights for several days. Monday morning, airport administrators announced that flights have since resumed.
Last Friday afternoon, the Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO) announced that it would be monitoring water levels at Escanaba River Dam 1, located just off of US-41, as forecasted rain had the potential to accelerate snowmelts. On Monday, an UPPCO spokesperson told WZMQ 19 that while flows remain high, cooler weekend temperatures helped to keep them steady. As snow continues to melt, officials expect to see high flows for the next week.
Because conditions can change quickly, citizens are advised to avoid recreation upstream and downstream of hydroelectric facilities. Boating should be avoided near intake structures and discharge areas due to dangerous undertows. Citizens are also asked to obey all posted signs and to stay out of restricted areas.
As always, anyone experiencing an emergency involving high water levels should immediately call 911.
