Sen. John Damoose provided an update on April 14 regarding rising water levels at the Cheboygan Dam, noting that local officials and first responders are closely monitoring the situation to determine if additional safety measures are needed.
The update is important for residents in the area who may be affected by potential flooding or evacuation orders. Damoose said he wanted to share information with community members concerned about their families’ safety.
According to Damoose, as of Tuesday morning, the water level was 7.68 inches below the top of the dam, which is more than six inches higher than it was yesterday. If the water reaches six inches below the top, officials will move from a green “ready” phase to a yellow “set” stage. Should it get within one inch of overflowing, a red alert phase will be initiated and occupants in affected areas will be asked to evacuate within a specified time period.
Damoose said residents would receive an Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) notification from FEMA on their mobile phones if an evacuation order is issued by local authorities. He encouraged residents to begin preparing for possible evacuation by following what he called “the 6 P’s: plan, personal items, prescriptions, photographs, pets and papers.”
“There has been some incorrect information being circulated,” Damoose said, urging people to contact his office or monitor official channels for updates. He also advised caution regarding standing water on roads and possible roadblocks during preparations.
“Please, stay calm and stay safe,” Damoose said in closing remarks. “Northern Michigan residents have shown their grit, especially in recent years, and we can work together to get through this safely.”
