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Michigan Dams Unleash Flash Floods: Evacuate Now!
13 Apr
Summary
- Dam operators opened floodgates, causing dangerous water rises.
- Flash flood warnings issued for Manistee, Alcona, and Oscoda counties.
- Residents urged to move to higher ground and avoid flooded roads.
Thousands of people in northern Michigan face an urgent flash flood threat due to significant floodgate releases at two major dams. Operators opened floodgates at the Tippy Dam on the Manistee River and the Mio Dam on the Au Sable River, causing dangerous, fast-rising water levels downstream.
Flash flood warnings were issued and extended for parts of Manistee, Alcona, and Oscoda counties. These releases occurred as much of Michigan remains under a widespread flood watch, with heavy rain and saturated ground exacerbating flooding risks statewide.
Authorities specifically warned residents near High Bridge Campground downstream of Tippy Dam to move to higher ground immediately. Similarly, areas downstream of Mio Dam, including Mio and McKinley, are impacted. Officials stress that driving through flooded roads is extremely dangerous and can be fatal.
