Sen. John Damoose gave an update on April 14 regarding rising water levels at the Cheboygan Dam, emphasizing that local officials and first responders are closely monitoring the situation to determine if additional safety steps are needed.
The update is important for residents living near the dam as it outlines how authorities are tracking water levels and what actions may be required if conditions worsen.
Damoose said, “I’ve maintained close contact with local officials and first responders, and the situation is being carefully monitored to determine if additional safety measures should be taken.” He also encouraged community members to seek information from reliable sources such as his office, the City of Cheboygan, Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Office, and Michigan State Police.
As of Tuesday morning, the water level was measured at 7.68 inches below the top of the dam—over six inches higher than it was a day earlier. If this level reaches six inches below the top, alerts will move from green ‘ready’ phase to yellow ‘set’ stage. Should it reach within one inch of overflowing, a red alert will be issued. In that event, affected residents would receive a Federal Emergency Management Agency Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) notification on their mobile phones instructing them to evacuate within a specified time frame.
Damoose advised residents: “Residents are encouraged to start planning or begin packing necessary items and preparing your family, pets and vehicle for potential departure.” He added a reminder about “the 6 P’s: plan, personal items, prescriptions, photographs, pets and papers.” Damoose further cautioned against misinformation circulating in some channels.
“As residents prepare for evacuation,” he said in closing remarks,“be cautious of standing water on roads and be mindful of potential roadblocks that may be in place… Please stay calm and stay safe. Northern Michigan residents have shown their grit…and we can work together to get through this safely.”
The situation continues to develop as authorities monitor conditions around Cheboygan Dam.
