Parts of Michigan Forecast to Get Life-Threatening Flooding
Nothing has been normal about Michigan weather patterns the past few years, and now, Michigan is bracing for what could be some life-threatening flooding. The excessive rainfall that’s on the way is part of what was Hurricane Beryl and is moving towards Michigan Tuesday night (July 9) and Wednesday (July 10).
Michigan Forecast to Get Life-Threatening Flooding
The heaviest rain is expected tonight, but the rain will continue all the way through Wednesday, so the flooding potential will be big for the next two days. So, where is this rain and life-threatening flooding heading? While the entire state is going to get wet, the heaviest downpours are projected to be in the Mid-Michigan area. The National Weather Service has put most of Mid-Michigan under a flood watch from 11 p.m. Tuesday to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday. For the flood watch, they state that “flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible.” What’s more, “excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.” I live near a river and adjacent to a creek, so I’m definitely worried about the life-threatening flooding potential. According to the National Weather Service, “The remnants of what was hurricane Beryl will arrive in lower Michigan tonight bringing rainfall through Wednesday evening. Widespread rainfall of 2 to 4 inches with a band of 4 to 6+ inches somewhere in the watch area is likely.” Cities impacted could include Grand Rapids, Lansing, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Mount Pleasant and more in the Mid-Michigan area.
As for actions to take to be prepared, the National Weather Service says, “You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.” Also, if you’re driving and reach an area with a flooded road, “Turn around, don’t drown.” According to the NWS, “Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water.” They add that “many of the deaths occur in cars swept downstream” and that “many of these drownings are preventable.” So, if you see a flooded area ahead while you’re driving, be smart and safe and turn around. Just six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult, so just imagine what it could do to a child. Driving or walking in flood waters is never safe, so don’t do it. Weather.com predicts the rainfall will taper off on Thursday. Keep reading below for some severe weather safety tips from experts.
7 Severe Weather Safety Tips That May Save Your Life
