RELEASE: Gov. Whitmer Expands State of Emergency to Help Recovery Efforts After Severe Storms and Tornadoes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

August 28, 2023   

Gov. Whitmer Expands State of Emergency to Help Recovery Efforts After Severe Storms and Tornadoes

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Eaton, Ingham, and Livingston counties, and the city of South Lyon in Oakland County, after severe storms and seven tornadoes touched down across the state last week. This is an expansion of the state of emergency declared by Governor Whitmer for Monroe and Wayne counties on August 25.

“Today, I am expanding the state of emergency I declared a few days ago to three more counties and the city of South Lyon so we can continue recovering from the impacts of the powerful storms we faced,” said Governor Whitmer. “This action will ensure we efficiently and effectively distribute state resources to communities in need. We have been through a lot over the last week, but I know we will get through it together. Michiganders are tough and we have each other’s backs.” 

On August 24, areas in lower Michigan experienced several storm fronts that brought heavy rain, strong winds, and tornadoes. As a result, communities across the state have experienced road and bridge closures; downed trees and power lines; damage to building structures, embankments, and road surfaces; overwhelmed stormwater and sewer systems; and deposits of silt and debris. Hundreds of homeowners have also reported residential flooding. 

As clean-up efforts continue, the declaration of a local state of emergency activates local emergency response and recovery plans. By requesting a governor’s declaration, these counties have determined local resources are insufficient to address the situation, and state assistance is required to protect the health, safety, and property to lessen or avert the threat of a crisis. By declaring a state of emergency, Governor Whitmer has made available all state resources in cooperation with local response and recovery efforts in the designated areas. The declaration provides that the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) will coordinate state efforts.  

For more information on how to prepare before, during, and after an emergency or disaster, visit www.michigan.gov/miready or follow MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS. 

To view the full executive order, please click the attachment below: 

EO 2023-8

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