Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

LANSING —  Governor Gretchen Whitmer on Thursday declared a state of emergency for Antrim, Cheboygan, and Emmet counties after an extreme rainfall event caused widespread flooding, severely damaged roads and infrastructure, and exhausted local response capabilities. 

“Today, I am declaring a State of Emergency for the communities of Antrim, Cheboygan, and Emmet counties, that faced severe rainfall and flooding on June 29,” said Governor Whitmer. ”The state of Michigan is coordinating with the federal and local governments to deliver critical resources and financial assistance to families, local businesses, and communities as they recover. Extreme weather has left an impact on communities across Michigan this year, but Michiganders are resilient. We will continue to work together and support one another through this recovery.” 

By declaring a state of emergency, Governor Whitmer has made available all state resources in cooperation with local response and recovery efforts. The declaration authorizes the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) to coordinate state efforts above and beyond what MSP/EMHSD has already been doing in conjunction with local agencies. 

About the Disaster 

On June 29, between 4 and 7 inches of rain fell within a few hours, causing widespread damage to transportation infrastructure in Antrim, Cheboygan, and Emmet counties. 

Antrim County 

Flooding caused ditch washouts, slope failures, culvert failures, roadway undermining, washouts of sections of M-66 and M-88, and roadway closures. Emergency repairs are underway to restore damaged roadways and reopen routes to traffic as assessments continue to determine the full extent of damage at several culvert locations. 

Cheboygan County 

Localized areas near Burt Lake received approximately 4 to 6 inches of rain in a short period of time, resulting in severe erosion and drainage system failures along West Burt Lake Road. One culvert sustained a complete structural failure, requiring the immediate closure of the roadway, while three additional culverts were determined to require replacement because of structural damage. The road closure significantly disrupted travel for residents and emergency services. 

Emmet County 

Flooding caused severe slope failures, roadway undermining, washouts, and roadway closures, along M-119 with some locations sustaining extensive damage. Emergency work is expected to begin to stabilize damaged areas and restore the roadway while additional engineering assessments determine long-term repair options for the most heavily impacted locations. 

State funding and federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration may now be pursued based on damage assessments and eligibility, including potential reimbursement through federal highway and disaster assistance programs.