LANSING — Michigan officials declared a state of emergency this week to respond to the weekend ice storm and assist with recovery efforts.
That order directs the Michigan State Police to help coordinate responses around the region and make more state resources available.
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist says that the declaration will help speed up assistance for those who need it.
“We are unlocking resources to the local communities so that we can support these courageous and energetic and amazing first-responders who are on there, helping people make sure people have what they need,” Gilchrist said.
Gilchrist says that about 30 National Guard members are currently helping restore power and clean up debris in the area, in addition to state and local authorities.
“The state of emergency declaration is making sure that resources will not be a question, that people will have what they need in order to get through this,” Gilchrist said. “People will have what they need in order to rebuild what needs to be rebuilt, restore what needs to be restored, so that we can all move forward together.”
Gilchrist suggested those in need or help or resources call 211.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said today that she has canceled a speech in Washington, D.C., scheduled for later this week to stay and coordinate the state’s response.
Whitmer’s office says that she’s working to expand the declaration to include additional counties and to ease weight restrictions on trucks carrying fuel and supplies.