GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Heavy rainfall over the past week has caused the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids to swell to alarming levels, prompting the river to reach its “action” stage, signaling that the river is nearing minor flood conditions. On Sunday afternoon, News 8 observed construction machinery submerged in the Grand River just outside the Grand Rapids Public Museum. In addition to the submerged equipment, some of the downtown boardwalks were also covered by high water levels.
The rising river levels are the result of two powerful Colorado low systems that brought between 1 to 5 inches of rainfall to the area in just over a week. The spring thaw, which allows rainwater to rapidly drain into rivers, lakes, and streams, has exacerbated the situation. As a result, the Grand River’s discharge rate near the Grand Rapids Public Museum has surged to 13,100 cubic feet per second—well above normal for this time of year.
While the “action” stage doesn’t indicate major flooding, it does raise concerns for minor flooding in several areas. Flooded walkways and water spilling over the riverbanks are already visible in parts of downtown. The action stage has also been reached in Comstock Park, where the Grand River has historically caused minor flooding during similar events. The most recent major flood in the area occurred almost five years ago, in May 2020.
Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, as river levels in West Michigan are expected to slowly recede throughout the coming week. However, minor flooding is still being reported in other parts of the region, including Maple Rapids in Clinton County and the Red Cedar River in East Lansing. Streamflows remain faster than usual, with many rivers and streams throughout the area continuing to experience above-average flow rates.
With continued rainfall expected in the coming days, residents near rivers and streams are urged to stay alert to changing conditions and take necessary precautions to avoid flood-related hazards.
