Hello Friends,
In an effort to keep our community informed and updated on the flooding and storm damage, our office has compiled updated information as well as resources. Due to heavy rainfall and storms, several roadways accumulated standing water in the Canton community and surrounding areas. Hundreds of homes have been affected, as well as local businesses. Please use caution when driving and do not drive into deep standing water if you come upon it. Flood water can also be dangerous to come into direct contact with, so avoid walking directly through standing water whenever possible as well.
I want to thank all the first responders who have worked diligently the past day and through the night to assist residents and ensure the safety of our community.
Canton residents who have been affected by the heavy rains are encouraged to submit this self-reporting survey to help assess the damage throughout the township. This data will help Canton pursue resources at both the state and county levels. Please help spread the word and encourage anyone who has any type of damage to complete this survey as soon as possible.
PLEASE NOTE: This situation is rapidly changing as new information comes to light and damage and cleanup efforts continue to be assessed. The information below provides an overview of the current situation and resources for residents. For additional updates, please monitor social media, as well as the Canton Township website and Facebook page.
As always, if our office can ever assist you, please do not hesitate to reach out. My team will continue closely monitoring this situation and providing updates via social media.
Sincerely,
Ranjeev Puri
State Representative, 24th District
Proudly serving Canton Township
STORM/FLOOD UPDATE
As of an 11 a.m. briefing today, Aug. 25, with local and state officials, this is what we know:
- Canton received 4-6 inches of rain on Aug. 24 alone, and additional storms last night brought more rain and wind damage.
- Canton has four creeks in the township that overflowed into neighborhoods, affecting homes and businesses.
- As of yesterday, over 250 homes reported flood damage, and as of this morning, reports are over 300.
- Last night, Canton declared a Local State of Emergency, which will allow the township to work with the county and state for assistance and resources.
- Strong storms last night and a potential tornado in the area caused downed trees, debris and other damage. This has amplified the flooding. The strong winds also increased power outages.
- Canton Township has enacted its stormwater management plan and is working with EGLE on sewer discharge.
Most roads in Canton have reopened as of this afternoon.
Due to power outages, several traffic lights around Canton are out. Please treat each of these areas as a four-way stop and use caution while driving.
If you are without power, Canton is asking residents to contact DTE at (800) 477-4747 or fill out an online report here. Canton Township is only responsible for water and sewer utilities, so by contacting DTE directly, you will put yourself in contact with the service provider best able to resolve your issue.
We also have a lot of residents reporting downed trees. Canton’s Public Works Division is working to clear main roads with obstructions. Once completed, they will move onto subdivision streets to clear any trees blocking traffic. Please note, if you have large tree limbs or trees that have fallen on private property, you will need to work with your HOA or private landscaping company for removal.
PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY: AVOID ALL RIVERS AND STREAMS IN WAYNE COUNTY
Wayne County has issued a Public Health Advisory. Due to contamination from flood runoff and wastewater overflows, citizens should avoid contact with all rivers and streams in Wayne County. Wash vigorously with soap and clean water if you come in contact with flood waters. Watch pets and do not eat fish from these waters.
CANTON GFL UPDATE
Due to the flooding yesterday, GFL was unable to complete collection in the following areas:
- Lotz Road from Cherry Hill to Palmer roads
- Emerald Pines Subdivision
- Bluesprings Subdivision
- Wildwood Subdivision
- Reisa Subdivision
GFL is working to get these areas collected today. If your home was missed, please keep trash and recycling at the curb until collected.
PARK CLOSURES
Due to storm damage, the Heritage Park Splash Playground is closed for the remainder of the season. Also, the Heritage Park South Pavilions are closed indefinitely due to significant storm damage. Heritage Park visitors should use extreme caution or temporarily avoid the area as there are several downed trees. Canton Parks staff is working to clear all debris. For more information, call (734) 394-5360.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Summit on the Park
Summit on the Park (46000 Summit Parkway) is available for residents who need somewhere to go. There are also “muck buckets” available at the Summit.
Power Outage Tips
How to stay safe during a power outage and FEMA Power Outage
Department of Insurance and Financial Services
Questions about insurance-related issues can be answered by the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services. Assistance is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (877) 999-6442 or at Michigan.gov/DIFS. Information about flood insurance can be found here.
Michigan Public Service Commission
Outage credits may be available for customers who lose power during storm events, but they do not always fully address the expenses that can be incurred during an extended outage. Residents experiencing financial hardship can find out more about available assistance and shutoff protections for their home utility services here.
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy
Information about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) can be found here or by phone at (800) 427-4661.
Michigan State Housing Development Authority
Housing Counseling Agency Information or call 855-MI-MSHDA [(855) 646-7432].
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
Steps for cleaning mold are available here, or call (517) 335-9436.
- Information about drinking water testing is available here, or call (844) 934-1315.
- Information about relocation assistance is available here, or call (517) 241-3740.
- Information about state programs that can help with healthcare coverage, food assistance, child development and care, cash assistance, and state emergency relief are available on the MIBridges website, or call (844) 799-9876.
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Information to protect your property, pets, and livestock is available online, or call (800) 292-3939.
American Red Cross
- 800-RED-CROSS [(800) 733-2767]
- The American Red Cross Michigan Region
- Flood Safety Tips
Michigan 2-1-1
For more information about local resources, dial 2-1-1 or visit www.211.org.