Updated River Level Forecast Higher Than Expected
KENT COUNTY, Mich (April 6, 2023): The National Weather Service recently released river crest projections that designate several locations within Kent County as minor flood zones, and one as a major flood zone (Comstock Park). The forecast river crest on Saturday is roughly the same as what occurred during the May 2020 flood. These water levels correlate to what we now know has been the wettest January 1 to April 5 stretch on record.
Here are the updated river crest projections:
- GRAND RIVER IN COMSTOCK PARK – Currently at 13.8 feet (Moderate Stage) – Will gradually increase until Saturday morning when it crests at 16.3 feet. This crest represents MAJOR flooding which we have not seen since May of 2020.
- GRAND RIVER IN ADA – Currently at 18.97 feet (Minor Stage) – Will somewhat rapidly increase until Saturday evening when it levels off around 21.5 feet which is MINOR Flooding Stage.
- GRAND RIVER IN LOWELL – Currently at 14.64 feet (Minor Stage)– Will quickly rise and then level off around 17.1 feet which is “Minor Flooding Stage” on Saturday Morning before receding.
- BUCK CREEK IN GRANDVILLE – Currently at 7.9 feet (Minor Stage)– Buck Creek is already beginning to recede and will be back below the Action Stage tonight.
- THORNAPPLE RIVER IN CALEDONIA – Currently at 11.22 feet (Minor Stage) – Will continue to rise up to around 11.9 feet early Friday morning which is just below the moderate flood stage.
The Kent County Emergency Operations Center is actively monitoring the situation, which will continue through the weekend. "As water levels continue to rise on our area rivers, it is time for those in flood-prone areas to finalize any last minute preparations and determine if it is time to leave," said Emergency Management Coordinator Matt Groesser. "We are planning to send several drone teams out on Saturday morning when rivers are nearing their crest, and any developments that stem from that assessment will be communicated immediately."
For those impacted by this flood event, there are resources available to you.
- If you are in imminent danger, or for any life safety emergencies call 9-1-1.
- If you anticipate being displaced by flooding, contact the American Red Cross at 1(800) Red-Cross.
- For other non-emergency concerns, consider calling 2-1-1. Michigan 2-1-1 is a free service that connects Michigan residents with help and answers from thousands of health and human services agencies and resources right in their communities—quickly, easily, and confidentially.
If flooding occurs in your area, Kent County Emergency Management recommends the following actions to protect you and your family:
During floods
- Stay out of flood waters. Flood water moves faster than it appears and can carry debris, which might injure you. Additionally, there is a danger of electrical shock from downed and exposed power lines. Children should never play around high water, storm drains, or viaducts.
- Avoid driving in flood water as vehicles can easily be swept away. If you are stranded and surrounded by flood waters, call or text 911 immediately.
- Flood water can be dangerous to your health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flood water can contain dangerous bacteria and other pollutants, including raw sewage.
o If flooding does occur in your area, avoid contact with flooded areas and wash up if contact does occur. Listen to public announcements or contact your local health department to find out if your tap water is safe to use.
o The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) encourages Michiganders who get their drinking water from wells to get their well water tested following a flood event. More information is available by calling the MDHHS Drinking Water Hotline at 844-934-1315.
Click here (https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=grr) to monitor river level forecasts of a particular river or geographical area.
Remember, if you encounter water over any roadway - "TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN."
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