NOAA Issues Flooding Alert for Michigan and Wisconsin as Record River Flooding Continues Through Early Next Week
UPPER GREAT LAKES — The National Water Center issued an urgent flooding update for the Upper Great Lakes region Thursday April 16, 2026 at 7:30 AM CDT. Considerable river and small stream flooding is ongoing and expected to continue through early next week across Michigan and Wisconsin, with major and record river flooding already reported. Another 1 to 2 inches of rain arriving Friday into Saturday will make conditions significantly worse.
Key Flooding Facts Right Now
Widespread considerable flooding is being driven by a combination of heavy rainfall and snowmelt hitting an already saturated region. The National Water Center is using strong language — major and record river flooding — for parts of Michigan and Wisconsin.
| Threat | Details |
|---|---|
| Current flooding | Considerable to major and record levels across Michigan and Wisconsin |
| Additional rainfall | 1 to 2 inches locally higher arriving late Friday into Saturday |
| Duration | Ongoing through early next week |
| Potential impacts | Widespread inundation of roads and structures, evacuations, swift water rescues possible |
The Most Critical Warning
Flooding at night is particularly dangerous because rising water on roads is nearly impossible to see in the dark. The National Water Center is delivering a direct message to anyone traveling across Michigan and Wisconsin through the weekend:
If flooding is encountered while driving, turn around and do not drown.
Avoid all travel and recreation near rivers and streams through early next week. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways under any circumstances.
Stay with CabarrusWeekly.com for ongoing flood coverage across Michigan and Wisconsin through the weekend.
