LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today declared a state of emergency in Lake, Manistee, Osceola, Ottawa and Wexford counties.  The declarations were requested by local officials and ensure that direct state resources will be made available to address immediate threats to public health and safety related to recent severe weather. 

"These emergency declarations are part of our on-going effort to assist local emergency personnel," Granholm said.  "Together we are committed to protecting Michigan citizens."

Governor Granholm's emergency declarations authorize the Michigan State Police (MSP), Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division to coordinate all state efforts in preserving and acquiring state resources to assist with immediate threats to public health and safety related to the severe weather that began June 6.

Executive Orders 2008-12 through 2008-16 will allow resources from all state departments to be deployed in local response efforts.

Such resources include, but are not limited to personnel, supplies, equipment, materials, or facilities from all state departments.  State resources will specifically be made available to assist with damaged bridges, culverts, roadways and plugged drains.

Local jurisdictions submit a request for a state of emergency or disaster under Public Act 390 when the situation is beyond the capability and control of local government and affects public health and safety.

On June 13, Governor Granholm declared a state of emergency in Allegan, Eaton, and Mason counties and the cities of Lansing and Saginaw.  Various state departments, including: Agriculture, Corrections, Environmental Equality, Military and Veterans Affairs, Natural Resources, State Police and Transportation, continue to play instrumental roles aiding local officials with recovery efforts.

To help monitor the situation, the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has been actively engaged since June 9, and SEOC personnel continue to work in collaboration with federal, state, and local officials.

Situation updates are available at www.michigan.gov/emhsd.  Executive Orders can be found at www.michigan.gov/gov

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