Rising Waters Push Cheboygan Dam to ‘Ready’ Stage as State Expands Emergency Response

Water nearing critical levels prompts evacuation preparations, bridge closure and emergency response efforts

CHEBOYGAN, Mich. (AP) — Water levels at the Cheboygan Dam and Lock complex reached the “Ready” threshold early Monday as state and local officials intensified preparations for possible flooding in northern Michigan.

The Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Office reported at 5:26 a.m. Monday that water levels were about 12 inches below the top of the dam and rising at a rate of 3 inches or more per day. Authorities urged residents in low-lying areas between the Cheboygan DNR Dam and Lake Huron to prepare for potential evacuation by assembling emergency supplies, securing outdoor items and closely monitoring official updates.

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The “Ready, Set, Go” system outlines escalating actions as water levels rise. The current “Ready” phase signals residents to plan and pack for a possible evacuation. The “Set” phase begins when water reaches 6 inches below the top of the dam, and the “Go” phase is triggered when levels are within 1 inch of overtopping, prompting evacuation orders.

On Sunday evening, officials announced the US-23 bascule bridge in Cheboygan would be raised Monday to protect it from debris moving down the river and to ensure public safety. Traffic is being detoured to the Lincoln Avenue Bridge upstream, and there is no timeline for reopening the bascule bridge, which will require inspection before returning to service.

Earlier Sunday, state officials said Department of Natural Resources crews activated five pumps to help divert water around the dam complex and were working to secure additional pumping capacity. All dam gates on the DNR-managed portion are fully open to increase water flow.

State officials are also coordinating with federal regulators to explore reopening a hydroelectric generation station at the site to further increase water movement.

Crews continued mitigation efforts Saturday, placing additional sandbags around the dam and lock. Officials said they are working with multiple agencies to reduce the risk of structural failure.

On Friday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Cheboygan County, authorizing the use of state resources to support local response efforts. She also activated the Michigan State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate assistance.

State officials said a combination of record snowfall in recent weeks and recent rainfall contributed to rising water levels, raising concerns about potential flooding in surrounding communities. Authorities say monitoring will continue as conditions evolve.