Northern Michigan City Braces for Possible Flooding and Evacuations

Cheboygan residents told to prepare as rising river levels threaten dam

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:53pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a frozen river valley with the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex in the distance, dwarfed by the overwhelming scale of the natural environment. The scene conveys a sense of melancholic awe at the power of the elements, with dramatic lighting and deep perspective.The Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex, a vital piece of infrastructure for the Northern Michigan region, faces an existential threat from rising floodwaters that could overwhelm the aging structure.Cheboygan Today

Residents in the Northern Lower Michigan city of Cheboygan have been warned to prepare for possible evacuations as flooding risks increase along the Cheboygan River. Snowmelt and heavy rains have pushed water levels dangerously close to the top of the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex, with officials implementing a 'ready, set, go' alert system in case the dam is breached.

Why it matters

The Cheboygan River is a vital waterway for the region, and a breach of the dam could cause catastrophic flooding in the city and surrounding areas. Residents are being urged to take precautions and be ready to evacuate on short notice to avoid potential loss of life and property damage.

The details

The rising water levels are the result of snowmelt from a mid-March winter storm combined with recent heavy rainfall. A large piece of ice has also damaged the safety wire near the dam, adding to the risk. State and local officials have activated emergency response plans, including sandbagging efforts, opening dam gates, and setting up water pumps to divert the flow. An evacuation order could be issued if the water reaches within an inch of the top of the dam.

  • On April 7, state officials first alerted the public about the rising water levels, which were 21.5 inches below the top of the dam at that point.
  • On Friday, the State of Michigan activated its State Emergency Operations Center and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency.
  • On Thursday, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources began a sandbagging effort, placing 2,000 sandbags by Sunday.
  • On Monday morning, the U.S. 23 Bascule Bridge in Cheboygan was closed to vehicle traffic and the bridge was raised to prevent damage from debris.
  • By 7 a.m. on Monday, the river water levels had reached 13.75 inches at the dam.

The players

Cheboygan County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that has been communicating the 'ready, set, go' evacuation plan to residents.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

The state agency that manages the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex and has been coordinating the emergency response, including sandbagging efforts and setting up water pumps.

Richard Hill

The Gaylord District supervisor for the DNR's Parks and Recreation Division, which manages the dam.

Brett A. Mallory

The mayor of Cheboygan, who has been urging residents to sign up for emergency alerts.

Gretchen Whitmer

The governor of Michigan, who declared a state of emergency in response to the flooding threat.

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What they’re saying

“All of the dam gates on the DNR-managed portion of the dam are fully open to handle this flow. The pumps add to the capacity. We are putting through as much water as we can.”

— Richard Hill, Gaylord District supervisor for the DNR's Parks and Recreation Division

“You are strongly encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts.”

— Brett A. Mallory, Mayor of Cheboygan

What’s next

If the water level reaches within 6 inches of the top of the dam, a 'set' alert will be issued, and if it reaches within 1 inch, a 'go' evacuation order will be given.

The takeaway

This flooding threat highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for robust infrastructure to protect communities from the growing risks posed by extreme weather events. Residents are being urged to heed the warnings and be ready to evacuate quickly if necessary to avoid potential tragedy.