Hart, Michigan – Rising water on the White River is pushing the Hesperia Dam toward a critical threshold, raising the risk of rapid flooding in Oceana County through Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, a Flash Flood Watch is now in effect due to the potential failure of the Hesperia Dam. Water is already flowing over the spillway, and additional rises could lead to overtopping of the dam itself. Emergency management officials report river levels remain elevated as upstream rainfall continues feeding into the system.
An additional 1 to 2 inches of rain that fell overnight is moving through the river basin, keeping flows high and increasing pressure on the structure. If failure occurs, water could move quickly downstream, flooding low-lying areas, rural roads, and properties near the river with little warning. Communities near Hesperia and downstream toward Hart face the greatest risk.
Drivers should avoid river crossings and flooded roads, especially near low bridges and drainage-prone areas. Residents in flood-prone zones should prepare now by moving valuables to higher ground and staying alert for emergency alerts.
Flooding concerns from rainfall alone also continue through late tonight, compounding the threat. Officials warn conditions may change quickly, and additional warnings could be issued at any time through Friday morning.
