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Governor Whitmer responds to severe ice storm in Northern Michigan, declaring a state of emergency to aid recovery efforts.
A severe ice storm swept through Northern Michigan over the weekend, prompting Governor Gretchen Whitmer to declare a state of emergency for ten counties on March 31, 2025. The affected counties include Otsego, Oscoda, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Mackinac, and Alpena. This declaration mobilizes state resources to support local response and recovery efforts in these areas.
The ice storm resulted in widespread power outages, leaving more than 100,000 residents without electricity across the northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula. The accumulation of over an inch of ice in certain regions led to downed trees and power lines, creating hazardous conditions and rendering many roads impassable.
State and Local Response Efforts
In response to the crisis, Governor Whitmer activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to coordinate the state’s response. The SEOC serves as the central hub for state, local, and federal agencies to manage disaster response efforts.
Local officials in the affected counties have also taken action, with several issuing local emergency declarations. Counties such as Oscoda, Alpena, Otsego, Montmorency, Cheboygan, and Emmet have declared local emergencies to address the situation. These declarations enable the activation of local emergency response and recovery plans and facilitate the request for state assistance when local resources are insufficient.
Impact on Communities and Infrastructure
The storm’s impact has been profound, with reports of significant damage to infrastructure and property. Hospitals in Charlevoix, Gaylord, and Grayling have been operating on backup generators, and numerous care facilities have closed due to power outages. In Montmorency County, a shelter-in-place order was issued due to concerns about falling trees weighed down by ice. Warming shelters have been established in Montmorency, Emmet, and Cheboygan counties to assist residents without power.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution around downed power lines, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a distance of at least 25 feet and treating all downed lines as energized. Even materials like metal fences and wet surfaces can become energized and pose significant risks.
Residents are advised to avoid travel if possible, as many roads remain hazardous due to fallen trees and ice accumulation. For those without power, it is recommended to seek shelter in designated warming centers and to check on neighbors, particularly the elderly and those with special needs.?
Looking Ahead: Recovery and Support
Recovery efforts are underway, with utility companies working diligently to restore power to affected areas. However, officials warn that some outages may persist into the coming days due to the extent of the damage. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and official channels for updates on restoration efforts and available resources.?
The state of emergency declaration enables the deployment of additional resources and support to the affected counties, facilitating a more coordinated and effective response. Governor Whitmer’s administration remains committed to assisting Michiganders through this challenging time, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity and resilience.?
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