Communities in northern Michigan and the eastern Upper Peninsula continue to face challenges following a recent ice storm.
On Monday the Governor’s office declared a state of emergency for communities impacted by the weekend’s winter storm that brought a thick coating of ice to many parts of northern Michigan.
Additionally, the Mackinac Bridge has experienced multiple temporary closures in the last 72 hours due to falling ice. The Mackinac Bridge Authority says the temporary bridge closure will remain in effect until more ice has fallen from cables and towers. Unlike closures due to high wind speeds, closures due to falling ice do not have predictable weather forecasts, informing the MBA of when a closure could be lifted. Mackinac Bridge Authority shared in a recent announcement that maintenance crews have reported an unprecedented amount of ice has formed on the bridge. Authorities discourage travel in the area at his time.
Text “MacBridge” to 67283 to receive notification of the bridges reopening.
Michigan State Police in the eastern Upper Peninsula have asked residents and communities to temporarily limit the purchase of gasoline fuel. The region is experiencing a fuel shortage while tanker trucks are stuck on the south side of the Mackinac Bridge. The state police expect fuel will be delivered to the region as soon as the bridge can re-open. Some stations have run out of fuel at this time. Officials suggest residents stay home and avoid travel if possible.
