In response to significant impacts from ongoing severe weather and flooding, and in anticipation of severe weather the remainder of the week, Barry County Emergency Management, along with 28 other counties, have declared a Local State of Emergency to support ongoing response and recovery efforts across the State of Michigan.
Primary areas of impact in Barry County include flooded areas along Thornapple River and Lake area, significant road damage throughout the County from heavy rain fall and an EF 1 tornado that impacted Prairieville, Hickory Corners, Johnstown and Assyria Townships.
Barry County is currently under a Flood Warning again, affecting the Thornapple River and Lake area. The flood level is anticipated to be similar to last week and forecasted to crest at level of 8.9 feet on Saturday April 18th.
The ongoing weather has caused widespread damage including downed trees and power lines, flooding, road closures, and structural damage. Emergency responders and Road Commission crews are actively working to assess damage, restore essential services, and ensure public safety.
Residents are urged to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas.
- Stay clear of downed power lines and report hazards to local authorities.
- Follow guidance from local officials and monitor trusted information sources.
- Contact 211 if they have any immediate needs.
Declaring a local state of emergency allows Barry County to:
- Mobilize additional local resources
- Request assistance from regional and state partners
- Expedite emergency response and recovery operations
Damage Reporting:
Ongoing storm damage can be reported using the following link provided by the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division for statewide use by residents for reporting damage following disasters. This information will be shared with Local Emergency Managers to assist with emergency response and recovery efforts: Self-Reporting Survey.
Protecting the health and safety of Barry County residents remains our top priority. Barry County Emergency Management will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. For the latest information, visit www.Facebook.com/BarryCountyEMD.
