Bay County Declares a Local State of Emergency Due to Widespread Flooding

Contact: Ryan Manz, Bay County Emergency Management Coordinator, (989) 895--4112
Issued: June 23, 2017

BAY COUNTY, MI - Bay County has declared a local state of emergency due to widespread flooding. The incident has escalated to the point where coordination among several agencies is required.

“The amount of rainfall that we have seen in the last 24 hours has created a dangerous situation to both public infrastructure and private property,” states Bay County Executive Jim Barcia.
“Therefore, we deem it necessary to declare a local state of emergency to both impart the seriousness of the situation to our residents, and to facilitate any assistance we may need from the State of Michigan or the federal government.”

The local declaration is also the first step in requesting any state aid that may be needed as the incident progresses. The local state of emergency will remain in effect until further notice.

There are numerous roads impacted by the flooding resulting in numerous road closures. Flooding is the No. 2 weather-related killer behind heat. More than half of these fatalities occur when someone drives into floodwaters. Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way. Do not try to take short cuts--they may be blocked. Stick to designated routes. Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Bay County will continue to monitor the situation to ensure the safety and security of its residents. For the latest information, individuals are encouraged to monitor local media and follow the guidance of local emergency responders. As information becomes available, it will be updated on the Bay County Emergency Services webpage at: http://www.baycounty-mi.gov/ESHS/June-Flooding-Throughout-Bay-County.aspx.