Washtenaw County Declares State of Emergency in response to widespread and severe flooding

Last Thursday, the Chair of the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners declared a state of emergency in response to the widespread and severe flooding of numerous homes throughout the county caused by several days of heavy rainfall. Stormwater and sewer systems have been overwhelmed, which has also resulted in damage to streets, sidewalks, and other public infrastructure.  

The Chair of the Board also submitted a letter to Governor Whitmer requesting that she declare a State of Disaster or State of Emergency to broaden the response beyond Washtenaw County’s emergency operations. Specifically, Chair Sue Shink requested assistance in the form of financial support for individuals to clean, remove, and restore damaged property, as well as resources to provide temporary shelter for those displaced from their homes.  

 “Many of our residents do not have the flood insurance necessary to cover everything they have lost this past week. If we don’t act quickly and decisively to fully support them, they will be left holding the bag for thousands of dollars of needed repairs,” said Caroline Sanders, Washtenaw County Commissioner for District 4. “We must work with the state and other partners to provide the resources and support necessary to help these families begin to recover.” 

If you have suffered damage due to the recent flooding, you are encouraged to self-report the damage using this form: https://arcg.is/10ab1j 

·         Call 211 -  For non-emergencies related to flooding in-home and damage items. Residents who have experienced flooding in their homes are encouraged to keep a detailed account of damaged items by taking photos of them. 

·         Call 911 -  emergency calls only to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s office. 

“Our first and primary goal during any disaster response is to ensure that everyone involved is safe and sheltered.” said Washtenaw County Administrator Gregory Dill. “The County’s emergency response team will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to residents as we have them.” 

The Washtenaw County Health Department provides safety tips and instructions for clean up in the event of household flooding on their website: https://www.washtenaw.org/1807/Flooded-Homes 

The State of Emergency was effective upon being declared. Washtenaw County officials remind residents not attempt to drive on roads with standing water or traverse areas with damaged sidewalks.  

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.