LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency on Monday, March 31st, for ten counties in northern Michigan after a devastating weekend ice storm caused widespread power outages, downed trees, and blocked roads.

The affected counties include Otsego, Oscoda, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Mackinac, and Alpena. Many residents lost power, phone service, and access to basic needs – and many are still without power.

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For a look at what Gaylord looked like in Otsego County, click here.

“This morning, I’m declaring a state of emergency to get help out the door as fast as possible,” said Whitmer in her emergency statement. “State and local emergency teams are already on the ground, and we will continue collaborating with local first responders too.”

Although the counties of Oscoda, Alpena, Otsego, Montmorency, Cheboygan, and Emmet had declared local emergencies, local resources have proven insufficient to address the situation as residents in the region suffered power outages, including loss of backup generators, loss of phone and cellular services, and impassable roads.

With Whitmer’s declaration, the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) will coordinate state support.

For preparedness tips, visit Michigan.gov/miready or follow @MSPNorthernMI on X.