(WXYZ) — The Michigan National Guard has been deployed to help with the response to the flooding in mid-Michigan.
Units have been deployed from Bay City, Saginaw, Port Huron, and other nearby communities, according to Michigan State Police.
MSP requested the deployment to aid in evacuations. They says approximately 130 soldiers and 40 specialized vehicles have responded. The vehicles are designed to drive through high water.
More than 200 soliders and additional equipment are expected to arrive on scene throughout the day. Additional National Guard members are also on standby, should they be needed.
“Our priority is supporting the State of Michigan’s response to this situation and ensuring the safety and well being of Michigan citizens,” said Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers, Adjutant General and Director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, in a news release. “Members of the Michigan National Guard are trained to respond at a moment’s notice when their skills are called upon – their professionalism is another reassuring example of the guard’s mission as ‘Michiganders helping Michiganders.’”
Officials say the National Guard members will take steps to mitigate the risk from COVID-19 as they respond to the situation.
