FEMA Evaluates Extensive Weather Damage Across Michigan Counties
This week marks the beginning of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) preliminary damage assessments in 30 counties throughout Michigan, following significant flooding and tornadoes that occurred in April. The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is collaborating with FEMA for these evaluations.
Multiple Disasters Since Early 2026
According to Lauren Thompson-Phillips, a public information officer for the Michigan State Police, the state has experienced three separate disasters since late February. “We here in the state of Michigan have had three separate disasters since late February, early March. And the tornado disaster, FEMA has already done those preliminary damage assessments. And the governor has already requested a major disaster declaration for the Southwest Michigan tornadoes [that struck in March],” she stated.
The current assessments are focused on the aftermath of the weather events post-April 10, when the State Emergency Operation Center was activated due to rising water levels in the Mullett Lake Watershed. The situation was further complicated on April 14 by a new storm system and nine tornadoes, which compounded existing issues from rapid snowmelt.
Assessment Process and Findings
Thompson-Phillips explained the extent of damage observed by six teams deployed across the state. “The damage we’re seeing is everything from water in basements to some homes in northern Michigan had flooding a lot higher than just basements. And then, mixed into that, we had the nine tornadoes. So we’re seeing trees on homes, straight-line wind damage. So it’s really a mixed bag,” she described.
The assessment process involves local officials initially conducting their own evaluations, with residents also encouraged to report damage. FEMA and state teams then verify these findings to expedite the disaster declaration process, should the governor decide to request it.
Duration and Types of Assistance
FEMA’s presence is expected to continue at least through next Thursday. The agency is currently assessing for potential individual assistance, which offers direct aid to homeowners and residents. Following this, a public assistance assessment will evaluate damage to public infrastructure and response expenditures.
Guidance for Residents
Residents are advised to remain prepared and informed. “My advice, first of all, to all residents in Michigan is to prepare: to be signed up for their local alerts, to have an emergency plan in place for their family, and to have an emergency preparedness kit that could potentially sustain them for three days in their home,” Thompson-Phillips recommended.
She also emphasized the importance of staying updated with insurance, as FEMA assistance is not a substitute for comprehensive coverage. For additional resources and support, dialing 211 can connect residents to necessary information.
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