State Senator Warns of Misinformation as Cheboygan Dam Water Levels Rise

Rising Water Levels at Cheboygan Dam Prompt Evacuation Preparations

Water levels at the Cheboygan Dam rose significantly over the past 24 hours, prompting local officials to warn residents to prepare for possible evacuation orders. The water level now stands at 7.68 inches below the dam’s top, more than six inches higher than the previous day’s measurement.

State Senator John Damoose (R-Harbor Springs) issued an urgent update to affected communities on Tuesday, emphasizing the need for preparedness while maintaining calm. “I’ve maintained close contact with local officials and first responders, and the situation is being carefully monitored to determine if additional safety measures should be taken,” Damoose said in his statement.

The rapid rise in water levels has placed the dam’s alert status close to changing from the current green “ready” phase to a yellow “set” stage, which activates when water reaches six inches below the dam’s top. If water continues rising to within one inch of the dam’s top, authorities will move to a red alert phase, triggering mandatory evacuations of affected areas.

Emergency management officials have established a clear protocol for notifying residents should evacuations become necessary. According to the Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Office, residents would receive alerts through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) directly to their mobile phones.

The situation highlights ongoing infrastructure and climate resilience challenges facing Michigan’s northern communities, where aging dams and increasingly unpredictable precipitation patterns have created heightened flood risks. The Cheboygan Dam, which helps regulate water levels on the Cheboygan River, is one of many critical water control structures in the state’s extensive waterway system.

Senator Damoose urged residents to begin preparations immediately, regardless of the current alert status. “Residents are encouraged to start planning or begin packing necessary items and preparing your family, pets and vehicle for potential departure,” he advised, recommending people remember “the 6 P’s: plan, personal items, prescriptions, photographs, pets and papers.”

Local emergency management teams have mobilized resources throughout the potentially affected areas. Road crews are monitoring key transportation routes that might be compromised by rising waters, while utility companies have placed response teams on standby should power infrastructure become threatened.

Damoose also addressed concerns about misinformation circulating among residents, directing people to official information sources including the Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Office, Cheboygan County Emergency Management, and the City of Cheboygan’s official communications channels.

“As residents prepare for evacuation, be cautious of standing water on roads and be mindful of potential roadblocks that may be in place,” Damoose warned, highlighting the dangers that can accompany flood conditions. Even shallow water can conceal road damage or create hazardous driving conditions.

The situation in Cheboygan reflects broader concerns across Michigan’s northern regions, where water infrastructure—much of it dating back decades—faces increasing stress from changing weather patterns and aging components. State officials have previously identified numerous dams requiring significant investment for repairs or upgrades.

“I’m praying for northern Michigan residents and am available to provide any assistance or updates I am able to provide,” Damoose added. “Please, stay calm and stay safe. Northern Michigan residents have shown their grit, especially in recent years, and we can work together to get through this safely.”

Local officials continue to monitor water levels hourly and will provide updates as the situation develops. Residents are encouraged to have emergency plans in place and stay tuned to official information channels for the most current guidance.