IONIA COUNTY, Mich. — "This is the first time that I've actually seen it personally, and it's a pretty incredible sight," said Portland native Sandy Kissane, who was visiting from out of state when she saw the ice jam Saturday morning.
With the Grand River flowing quickly ice continues to break, which can cause flash flooding in low-lying areas.
Ionia County Central Dispatch told 13 ON YOUR SIDE Some residents along Water Street in Portland were evacuated. Waters have receded from the area, but the city said it remains closed until the flood warning is canceled.
The city's agencies and first responders are working around the clock.
The Board of Light and Power crews are adjusting the electric grid when needed, and the wastewater treatment plant remains operational, according to posts made by the city.
"Our residents should know that when there is an event such as this, the entire City team is working tirelessly and collectively to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. Many thanks to the incredible professionals at Portland Police Department, Department of Public Works, Wastewater Treatment Plant, Board of Light & Power, Portland Area Fire Authority, and Portland Ambulance," said City Manager Tutt Gorman in a Facebook post.
Up the Grand River, agencies in Kent County have been preparing for the possibility of waters rising to flood levels.
"In terms of our response plan, our response plan is we check to make sure the roads are passable, or impassable. We make sure our crews are aware of what we can get to where we can't get to," said Plainfield Fire District Chief Kyle Svoboda.
Svoboda said his department will also check with residents near the river to make sure they are prepared to leave in case water levels reach past "normal flood stages."
He said residents should have a "go-bag," which can include things such as clothes, medications, phone charges, and other supplies that can last for at least a couple of days, in case of an evacuation.
Svoboda said his department will plan for a more severe flood stage than what may be expected.
"You really don't know what it's gonna be till it gets here," Svoboda said.
He asked residents who choose to stay home during a flood to remember that it will take first responders additional time to reach them in case of an emergency.
"Be cognizant of what you're using to heat your homes and what you're using for light, so don't use candles," Svoboda said. "If your house does catch on fire, and it's in the flooded area, we have no way of getting into it to put it out, and if you have a medical emergency, again, call early because it will take us time to get you out."
Resources for flood preparations and planning your own evacuation plan can be found below:
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