Downed tree branches and a power line after an ice storm, Monday, March 31, 2025, in Alpena, Mich. (Steve Schulwitz/The Alpena News via AP)

LANSING — In the wake of a days-long stretch of ice storms across Michigan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a State of Emergency on March 31.

“Today, I declared a state of emergency in ten counties to get help out the door as fast as possible for Michiganders hit by the ice storms in northern Michigan.” Governor Whitmer wrote in a press release. These counties include Otsego, Oscoda, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Mackinac, and Alpena.

The declaration will allow for the activation of the State of Emergency Operations Center. This will provide more resources for those needing shelter, emergency medical care, and power restoration. The State of Michigan will work with local officials and private parties to help with emergency relief.

“My heart is with everyone who has been hit hard by the recent ice storm–and with those facing ongoing severe weather across the state,” Governor Whitmer said.

In a subsequent press release, Congressman Jack Bergman (R-MI) praised Governor Whitmer for her decision.

“Our Northern Michigan and Upper Peninsula counties have experienced unprecedented damage over the weekend from a historic ice storm,” Representative Bergman stated in the release. “I’m grateful Governor Whitmer has declared this important state of emergency, making vital resources available for our First District counties. We cannot express how thankful we are for the tireless work of our linemen, first responders, and everyone on the ground doing everything they can to help our communities.”

Following the multiple-day storms, 90,000 businesses and homes were left without power. Trees and branches fell and blocked roads, power lines snapped in the cold, and power poles were down. The effects of the sleet and freezing rain were so bad in some areas, a shelter-in-place order was issued.

In Montmorency County, local authorities declared their own state of emergency on March 30, and announced, “All individuals are requested to shelter in place due to hazardous down power lines and debris for the next 24 hours. Only travel if you have an emergency.”

Despite a slight temperature increase in the Keweenaw, more snow, sleet, and freezing rain is expected before the end of the week.