Heavy Rains Threaten Flooding, Dam Overflows in Northern Michigan

Crews work to restore power and increase water flow at the Cheboygan Dam as flood watches and warnings are in effect across the region.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:18pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of grey, blue, and white, depicting a raging river cutting through a snow-covered countryside, with the swollen waters dwarfing any visible structures or human presence, conveying the overwhelming power of the natural disaster.As heavy rains continue to swell northern Michigan's rivers, the looming threat of catastrophic flooding casts an ominous shadow over the region's picturesque landscapes.Cheboygan Today

Heavy rainfall across northern Michigan has heightened concerns of river flooding and potential dam overflows, prompting officials to take emergency measures. Crews are working to restore power to a closed hydroelectric station and add more pumps to the Cheboygan Dam to help push water toward Lake Huron. Flood watches and warnings are in effect for several rivers, and residents near the Cheboygan River have been advised to prepare 'go-bags' in case of evacuations.

Why it matters

The heavy rains and snowmelt have elevated water levels across northern Michigan, raising the risk of widespread flooding that could threaten homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure like dams and hydroelectric stations. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and taking proactive steps to mitigate the potential for disaster.

The details

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is working to restore power to a closed hydroelectric station at the Cheboygan Dam and adding more pumps to help increase the flow of water toward Lake Huron. Crews are also removing the gates of the dam to further aid water flow. Flood warnings are in effect for the Cheboygan River Basin, the Au Sable River, and the Manistee River, and flood gates have been opened at the Mio Dam and the Tippy Dam. In the Upper Peninsula, there are concerns about flooding along the Sturgeon River, where some areas still have 15 to 30 inches of snow on the ground.

  • On Monday, crews were working to restore power to the closed hydroelectric station and add more pumps to the Cheboygan Dam.
  • A public meeting is planned for Tuesday to update residents and business owners on the situation.
  • Flood warnings are in effect for the Cheboygan River Basin, the Au Sable River, and the Manistee River until Sunday.

The players

Kathleen Lavey

Michigan Department of Natural Resources public information officer.

Gretchen Whitmer

Governor of Michigan, who declared a state of emergency at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex.

Trent Frey

National Weather Service meteorologist.

Ann Kessler

Owner of the Secrets on Main bed and breakfast in Cheboygan, which is across the street from the Cheboygan River.

Chris Van Arsdale

Emergency management coordinator for Houghton and Keweenaw counties in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

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What they’re saying

“'We had crews in place overnight in order to increase the flow of water through the complex. We're bringing a giant crane in and removing the gates of the dam. Even when the dam is open it helps the water flow when you take them off.'”

— Kathleen Lavey, Michigan Department of Natural Resources public information officer

“'A flood watch is in effect for pretty much all of Northern Michigan.'”

— Trent Frey, National Weather Service meteorologist

“'I've just been kind of watching it remotely. I have a friend who went over to check on everything. She's going to put anything that's in our yard in our garage so if water goes through there it doesn't add to the debris that's floating around.'”

— Ann Kessler, Owner, Secrets on Main bed and breakfast

“'We're definitely monitoring. We're still within where we normally would be this of year. All of our public works agencies are watching culverts to see if they're plugged or not.'”

— Chris Van Arsdale, Emergency management coordinator, Houghton and Keweenaw counties

What’s next

Officials are closely monitoring water levels and dam readings, and are prepared to take further action if necessary to prevent flooding and protect public safety. Residents near the Cheboygan River have been advised to be ready to evacuate if the situation worsens.

The takeaway

The heavy rainfall and snowmelt in northern Michigan have created a precarious situation, with the potential for widespread flooding that could threaten homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. Officials are working around the clock to mitigate the risks, but the situation remains fluid and residents are being urged to stay vigilant and prepared.