The Michigan State police are urging residents to prepare for possible flooding.
Heavy rain is expected over the next 24 hours.
The National Weather Service is forecasting 1 to 4 inches of heavy rain between 2 p.m. and 7 a.m. Tuesday, August 16. Some parts of the state are expected to get up to 5 inches.
“Flash flooding has the ability to be life-threatening and damaging,” said Captain Chris A. Kelenske in a release.
Kelenske is the deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD.
“To be prepared and safe, residents should protect their property against any flooding hazards and double-check to ensure they are covered by insurance. If you must travel, please be careful and do not drive through any flooded road,” Kelenske says.
Michigan State Police say you should follow these tips to be prepared for a flood:
- Create an emergency preparedness kit with a 72-hour supply of water, including three gallons per person.
- Put important documents and valuables in a water-proof container on the top floor of your home. Reconsider storing your valuables in the basement.
- 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.
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Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.
