State Emergency Operations Center Activated After Storms, Flooding

The State of Michigan activated the State Emergency Operations Center late Monday night after storms caused flooding in the metro Detroit area and beyond. Drivers were being asked to avoid the area during the Tuesday morning commute due to may road being impassible.

The Michigan State Police have been working throughout the night in assisting stranded motorists and clearing vehicles. Michigan Department of Transportation personnel have been working to fix expressways due to the flooding and public infrastructure damage. Tremendous efforts are being taken to reopen parts of I-696, I-75, M-39, M-10 and all other major routes in the region.

Drivers are being encouraged to monitor the roads bu going to www.michigan.gov/drive and take the following precautions:

• Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious and you could become stranded or trapped.
• Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection.
• Do not try to take short cuts - they may be blocked.
• Be especially cautious when driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

More information on what to do before, during and after a flooding emergency can be found here: www.michigan.gov/beprepared.