18-05-2025
Allegan County community reacts to state of emergency
ALLEGAN COUNTY, Mich. (WOOD) — After severe storms and tornadoes tore through neighborhoods, downed trees and power lines and left homes damaged across several towns in Allegan County, the county has officially declared a local state of emergency.
'I'm excited about it,' said Amber Buskard, a Martin resident who spent the day clearing her yard of debris and trees.
'It shows that they actually care about their people,' Buskard said. 'I think it just speaks volumes to Allegan County… That state of emergency will really take off that burden for some people. It's gonna help us greatly.'
Martin was among the hardest hit. Other affected areas within Allegan County include Dorr, Wayland, Hopkins, Allegan and parts of the lakeshore near Saugatuck and Douglas.
Amber spent her Friday picking up branches and clearing her yard. She wasn't alone.
'When [the storm] was done, everyone came out and we all started cleaning up right after,' Martin said. 'Just to say it at night and then to see everyone clean it up almost immediately. It was really heartwarming… I just think it's amazing that even through tragedy how we come together.'
That sense of unity has been echoed by county leaders, who say they've never seen anything quite like this.
'It was quite surprising to see the amount of downed trees, power lines debris, and overall loss of property and damage,' said Rob Sarro, Allegan County's administrator. 'Allegan County strives to be a safe, clean and healthy community to live, work and play. We're so grateful for the collaboration that people have and helping to get cleaned up in the area quickly and we just encourage everyone to again think safe, stay safe, and we'll get this cleaned up as soon as we can.'
Emergency Management Coordinator Sarah Clark is now leading a damage assessment effort, partnering with Michigan State Police and trained volunteers to document the destruction. The information they get will help determine what kind of state or federal disaster assistance the county might qualify for.
'It's difficult to see people in pain,' said Clark. 'It's difficult to see them without knowing where to turn, as far as losing belongings, or losing their home or vehicles, so it's just really important to make sure that the community understands that we're there to support them.'
As the cleanup continues, Clark and Sarro both ask for patience and caution.
'Recovery is a long-term process,' Clark said. 'So just managing those expectations and hoping people don't become frustrated with us as we try to navigate this situation.'
If volunteers don't reach your home directly, residents can report damage online using the county's self-reporting tool.
For ongoing updates, recovery information and safety tips, follow Allegan County Emergency Management on Facebook. Allegan County Emergency Management | Allegan MI | Facebook
For housing needs, officials recommend calling the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Mental health support is available through OnPoint Counseling Services.
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