Manistee, Michigan – Rising water along the Manistee River is already pushing into low-lying areas after a dam release, forcing urgent evacuations near campsites and riverbanks this morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, operators opened floodgates at Tippy Dam at 9:03 a.m. Monday, sending a surge of water downstream and prompting a Flash Flood Warning that remains in effect until 4:15 a.m. Tuesday. The flooding is already occurring, with immediate impacts reported along the river corridor.
Southern Manistee County is seeing the greatest risk, especially within 3.5 miles downstream of the dam near High Bridge Campground. Riverbanks are quickly overtopping, and access roads near the water may become impassable with little notice. Emergency officials warn that even shallow moving water can sweep vehicles away.
Campers, anglers, and residents in low-lying zones are urged to move to higher ground immediately. Avoid river access points and do not attempt to cross flooded roadways, particularly in wooded or unlit areas where water depth is difficult to judge.
Water levels will remain elevated overnight as the surge continues downstream. Additional warnings or extensions may be issued if conditions worsen.
