Officials and residents of two central Michigan counties that were damaged by severe weather are beginning recovery efforts as floodwaters recede.
Isabella and Midland counties experienced flash flooding due to thunderstorms Thursday night and Friday morning. The Tittabawasee and Chippewa rivers receded below flood stage early Tuesday, but numerous roads in the area remained closed due to structural failures and standing water.
Road commissions in Isabella, Bay, Midland and Saginaw continue to report more cleared and opened roads.
Midland County Emergency Management Coordinator Jenifier Boyer said at least 2,000 homes have been damaged and that officials are still counting.
U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar and other officials have asked Gov. Rick Snyder to seek federal emergency aid for the area.
“As local and state officials continue to assess the damage, I am working with federal agencies to make sure they are ready to help should the state deem it necessary,” Moolenaar said. “Additionally, I ask residents to continue following the messages of our state and local authorities to stay safe. Residents who have damaged property should report it to their local officials and insurance companies so they can accurately assess the impact of this flooding.”
The American Red Cross opened a shelter in Midland for those displaced due to flooding. Only one resident remained Monday.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is monitoring the situation. A news release says the governor must require a preliminary damage assessment or disaster declaration from the federal government within 30 days of the incident in order for FEMA resources to be made available.
