NORTHERN MICHIGAN (April 27, 2026) – The American Red Cross continues to make significant progress in responding to the immediate needs of residents who were impacted by severe flooding and storms across the state earlier this month.

Red Cross caseworkers have started planning for how to help those in areas impacted by tornadoes recover. The Red Cross works closely with partners to address the most critical gaps and ensure people are not overlooked.

To date, Red Cross volunteers have conducted residential damage assessments on 530 dwellings, of which 75 were destroyed or suffered major damage. This work will enable the Red Cross to better understand what help residents may need in the days and weeks ahead. 

Red Cross volunteers have distributed more than 1,000 relief items, serving 532 households, to date. These relief items include totes, rakes, shovels, contractor bags and heavy-duty gloves, as well as cleanup kits consisting of cleaner, bucket,mop, sponge, garbage bags and gloves.  

Currently, 93 Red Cross disaster workers are supporting the disaster operation, now in its 13th day.

Here are the other updates about the operation:        

• Anyone who is impacted by the recent flooding and storms can call 1-800-RED CROSS.       
• All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers.        
• All Red Cross shelters are now closed. Red Cross and its partners provided 89 overnight stays for more than 70 residents at 13 shelters.        
• With the help of partners, 1,035 meals and snacks have been provided.        
• Anyone 18 years and older and interested in supporting the disaster operation can visit redcross.org/volunteer. Enter your zip code and it will take you to a page displaying the Michigan event to register. Volunteers will assist with damage assessment and distributing relief supplies.        
• Help people affected by disasters big and small by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and help people recover from disasters big and small, whenever and wherever they occur across the country. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or text the word REDCROSS to
  90999 to make a donation. 

Flood Safety Tips

If you experienced flooding at your home, follow these safety tips:        

• The water can contaminate drinking water and
  contain sewage, sharp items, and chemicals that can make you ill. Check with your local public health department to protect yourself.   
• If in doubt, throw out food that got wet or warm.  
• Throw away any wet materials that can't be repaired or dried.        
• Avoid using gas, propane, natural gas or chemical-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, tent or camper. It can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.    
• If you were unable to return home within 24/48 hours, assume you have mold growth.        
• Wear protective clothing, including long pants, boots, work gloves and an N95 respirator to protect your lungs. 

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MEDIA CONTACT: David Olejarz / david.olejarz@redcross.org / 313-303-0606 

About the American Red Cross:  
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.