Flooding causes local state of emergency
Flooding between Lake Linden and Dollar Bay has led to Houghton County declaring a local state of emergency, according to a release from the Houghton County Office of Emergency Measures.
Rapid snowmelt led to fast-moving waters and the bursting of an abandoned railroad grade that was acting as an earthen dam. Storm water systems have been overwhelmed, causing road closures and washouts.
Photos courtesy of the Emergency Management Coordinator Chris Van Arsdale.
The local declaration is the first step in requesting state assistance with the cost of the recovery. Initial estimates already put the cost of recovery over $150,000. First responders and government agencies continue to work to protect people and property, and restore road access.
The state of emergency began on Thursday, and will last for a week unless renewed.
UPDATE, April 14, 2023:
Houghton County has submitted a request to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to declare a State of Emergency for the flooding, which was signed at 3:20 p.m. for Houghton and Gogebic counties. This clears the way for state assistance in management and recovery.
With the potential for wet weather this weekend, the Houghton County Emergency Manager is encouraging residents to drive with caution and be aware of the potential for rapidly changing water levels in streams and ditches.