Dozens of Michigan counties will be under a flood watch as the remnants of Hurricane Beryl move into the Great Lakes region.
Many of the areas could see 2-4 inches of rain between Tuesday and Wednesday night. Those living in areas prone to flooding should prepare to take action.
Here’s a breakdown of flood watch advisories by Michigan region:
From the National Weather Service in Detroit:
A portion of southeast Michigan, including the following areas, Bay, Genesee, Huron, Lapeer, Livingston, Macomb, Midland, Oakland, Saginaw, Sanilac, Shiawassee, St. Clair, Tuscola, Washtenaw and Wayne, will be under a flood watch from Tuesday evening through Wednesday evening.
Here’s more on the forecast from 4Warn Weather’s Ashlee Baracy: Remnants of Tropical System Beryl will initially bring the chance for isolated to scattered showers and storms this afternoon and evening.
If you are heading out to the Detroit Tigers game, check to make sure it isn’t delayed or postponed.
More widespread rain, which will be heavy at times, will move in starting late tonight/early Wednesday morning.
Rain will continue through Wednesday, ending early Thursday morning. About 1-3 inches of rain accumulation is likely across a good portion of Southeast Michigan during that time. Some areas may see higher amounts of rain accumulation at or above 4 inches, which is why a flood watch was issued.
This is a good reminder to keep checking your sump pumps on Wednesday, since that will be a lot of rain in a short amount of time. (More here)
From the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids:
The flood watch includes portions of central, south central, and southwest Michigan, including the following counties, in central Michigan, Gratiot, Isabella and Montcalm.
In south central Michigan, Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Ionia and Jackson.
In southwest Michigan, Allegan, Barry, Kalamazoo, Kent, Ottawa and Van Buren.
What to expect: Widespread rainfall of 2-4 inches with a band of 4-6+ inches somewhere in the watch area is likely.
From the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana:
The flood watch includes portions of southwest Michigan, including the following areas, Branch, Cass MI, Northern Berrien, Southern Berrien and St. Joseph.
What to expect: Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded.
How to prepare for flooding, from Michigan Ready:
- Create an emergency preparedness kit with a 72-hour supply of water, including three gallons per person.
- Scan and store important documents on an online, cloud-based program.
- Put important documents and valuables in a water-proof container on the top floor of your home.
- Understand how to safely turn off electricity and gas lines in your home.
- Create an inventory of your household items and take photos of the interior and exterior of your home.
- Consider installing sewer backflow valves to prevent flood water from backing up into your home through drain pipes.
- Double-check sump pumps to ensure they are working properly. If possible, have a battery backup system.
- Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber handy for emergency water-proofing.
- Find out how many feet your property is above and below possible flood levels. When predicted flood levels are broadcast, you can determine if you may be flooded.
- Rise or flood-proof heating, ventilating and air conditioning equipment by elevating equipment above areas prone to flooding. Another method is to leave equipment where it is and build a concrete or masonry block flood wall around it.
- Anchor fuel tanks. Unanchored fuel tanks can be easily moved by floodwaters.
Driving in Flood Conditions:
- Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water will float many vehicles.
- Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pickups trucks.
- Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious.
- The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
- Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.
- Do not try to take short cuts--they may be blocked. Stick to designated routes.
- Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
Flooding alert terms
Terms:
- Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in your area. Monitor local media channels and listen to your NOAA weather radio.
Flash Flood: Rapid flooding, usually in low lying areas. Water floods with great force.
Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible in your area. Monitor local media channels and listen to your NOAA weather radio.
Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur in your area. Move to higher ground and listen to local media for evacuation orders.
Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring. Seek higher ground and listen to local media for evacuation orders.
During:
- Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Disconnect all electrical equipment.
- Do not walk through moving water. Six inches is enough water to knock you down.
- Do not drive in flooded areas. Six inches of water can cause you to lose control and two feet of water can sweep away your car. Remember: Turn around, don’t drown.
- Listen to local media reports for information about if the water supply is safe to drink.
- Avoid contacting flood waters because they can be contaminated by hazardous liquids and may contain sharp debris.
- Report and stay 25 feet away from downed power lines.
After:
- Listen to local media reports for information about if the water supply is safe to drink.
- Avoid flood waters because they can be contaminated by hazardous liquids and may contain sharp debris.
- Be aware of areas that were previously flooded. The roads may be weakened.
- Report and avoid downed power lines.
Clean and disinfect anything that was wet from the flood. Throw away any food that was touched by flood waters.