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Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency after storms dumped four inches of rain in Houghton and Ontonagon counties, leaving millions in damage.
Governor Whitmer Declares State of Emergency After Torrential Rains
Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency on August 28 for Houghton and Ontonagon counties in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula following a severe rainfall event that overwhelmed local infrastructure and response capabilities. The declaration stems from a July 23 storm that dropped up to four inches of rain in four hours, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a flash flood warning.
The flooding caused widespread destruction: culverts collapsed, pavement washed away, at least one bridge failed, and public spaces were forced to close. Local officials acted quickly, deploying their own emergency plans, but four weeks later, communities were still cleaning up and struggling to repair vital infrastructure.
“Michiganders in Houghton and Ontonagon were hit hard by extreme rain and are facing significant disruptions to their daily lives and major damage to their roads and infrastructure,” Whitmer said in her statement. “By declaring a state of emergency, we’re going to ensure every state resource is available to help them in their recovery efforts.”
Michigan State Police Mobilize Resources for Recovery
The order authorizes the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) to coordinate recovery efforts. The division has been assisting local agencies since the flooding, but the declaration expands its authority to marshal resources across state departments.
“Both Houghton and Ontonagon counties need access to critical support to stabilize infrastructure and accelerate recovery,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police. “The MSP Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is working in close coordination with emergency managers in both counties to evaluate needs, support their requests, and make sure the right resources are available.”
Roads Washed Out, Bridge Destroyed, and Damage Tops $1 Million
In Houghton County, flooding battered Chassell Township, Torch Lake Township, Stanton Township, and the City of Houghton. Roads collapsed, storm sewers failed, and a bridge was destroyed, cutting off access for residents. Damage estimates already exceed $1 million.
In Ontonagon County, the road commission reported using over 90 percent of its equipment for emergency road repairs. While temporary fixes have restored limited access for emergency vehicles, public spaces remain closed and long-term repairs will require major resources.
Bipartisan Support as Local Leaders Call for Assistance
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II highlighted the human impact of the flooding. “This state of emergency declaration will connect communities and families with the resources they need to recover, pick up the pieces, and move forward with their lives,” he said.
State Senator Ed McBroom, a Republican from Vulcan, praised local emergency responders and welcomed the state’s action. “Our communities are grateful for the support on these local emergency declarations and needs,” McBroom said. “My office is ready to provide any needed assistance to repair and rebuild.”
State Disaster Relief Funding and Expiration of Emergency Order
The declaration activates potential financial assistance under Section 19 of Michigan’s Emergency Management Act (PA 390 of 1976), which helps local governments recover response costs and repair public infrastructure. Federal highway and disaster aid programs may also be pursued once assessments are completed.
The signed Executive Order No. 2025-8 specifies that the state of emergency will remain in effect until the threat to health, safety, and property is resolved—but no later than September 25, 2025, unless formally extended.
Looking Ahead: Recovery Challenges for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
The recovery process may take months. Local officials in both counties continue to report road collapses as soils dry out, and permanent repairs will require long-term funding commitments. In rural Upper Peninsula communities, where residents rely heavily on limited road networks, a washed-out bridge or closed public space has an outsized impact.
Whitmer emphasized the need for a unified response: “We will work alongside local teams and get through this together,” she said.
Experts warn that such events are becoming more common. The National Climate Assessment has documented a sharp rise in heavy precipitation events across the Great Lakes region since the 1950s, with communities like Houghton and Ontonagon among the hardest hit by these climate-driven weather extremes (U.S. Global Change Research Program, 2018).
Related Coverage
- The Father’s Day Flood of 2018 caused catastrophic damage in Houghton County, destroying more than 60 roads and bridges and resulting in one death (Detroit Free Press, June 2018).
- Michigan transportation officials have warned that outdated culverts and stormwater systems leave many rural communities vulnerable to extreme storms.
- Federal disaster aid determinations will be made in the coming weeks to assess eligibility for broader assistance.
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