Osceola and Mecosta County Officials Prepare for Flooding Rising water levels along the Muskegon River have prompted emergency preparations and warnings in Evart, as officials monitor what could become a major flooding event. Emergency crews and local agencies are tracking conditions in Evart and across Osceola County, where river levels have climbed rapidly and are forecast to crest above 15 feet later in the week, nearing historic levels recorded in 2014, according to local officials and the National Weather Service. Evart Fire Department Chief Shane Helmer reported that the river had reached 11.66 feet at the time of observation on Tuesday, April 14, rising from 10.86 feet in less than a day. A section of 11 Mile Road in Lincoln Township, between 220th Avenue and Lakola Road near the U.S. 131 exit for Ashton, has washed out completely, according to Helmer. “The entire road is washed away,” he said. The damage underscores the risks posed by flooded or submerged roadways, where underlying structures may be compromised. “Not knowing what’s underneath that water, it could collapse underneath you,” Helmer warned. Additional rainfall is expected to push water levels higher, with forecasts calling for a crest at or above 15 feet. Helmer described the situation as “another major impact flooding event” for the region. Emergency response plans from previous flooding events are now being reactivated, with coordination underway between local fire departments, emergency management, municipalities, and private partners. Crews are considering aerial reconnaissance and river patrols to identify emerging hazards. “We’re actively monitoring with emergency management,” Helmer said. Officials are also assessing infrastructure, including roads already impacted by flooding.#muskegon_river #osceola_county #mecosta_county #evart #shane_helmer
