Michigan Begins Joint Ice Storm Damage Assessments

State and federal agencies, including the Michigan State Police, FEMA, and the Small Business Administration, are conducting joint damage assessments following the historic late-March ice storm that devastated 12 Northern Michigan counties. The storm caused widespread power outages, downed trees and power lines, impassable roads, and disrupted critical services, leaving many residents without power for over two weeks. The assessments, taking place in two phases, are focused on evaluating damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure to determine eligibility for federal disaster assistance. The findings will inform whether Michigan can request a Presidential Disaster Declaration, potentially unlocking additional aid for affected communities. Governor Gretchen Whitmer and state officials emphasized the importance of these efforts to help families and businesses recover and rebuild, highlighting ongoing collaboration with local emergency managers and first responders. Additional state measures, such as legislative proposals to exempt affected schools from makeup days, are also underway to support recovery.