News Flash

Inkster Residents:

As we are experiencing heavy rainfall in Wayne and neighboring counties, many of us are experiencing various levels of flooding in our streets and, in some cases, in our basements. Our DPW, Police, and Fire Departments are assisting residents who are stranded in their vehicles. At this time, please avoid the roads and remain in your homes if possible. If you encounter a flooded road while driving, turn around and do NOT drive through it.

If you have flooding in your basement, please avoid the area to prevent possible electrocution (unless you are safely able to enter and appliances are unplugged). Please allow the water to recede or drain if you are able to safely do so.

Also, the flood water you are seeing in and around your streets is often contaminated with backed-up sewage. In addition to the obvious health hazards associated with contaminated water, murky waters can hide several unseen hazards, like sharp-edged debris, broken glass, sinkholes, etc. Stay out of this water as much as possible, and CERTAINLY don't allow children to play in floodwater (no matter how clear it appears to be).

Governor Whitmer declared a state of emergency in Wayne County. Click here to view the Executive Order 

Those impacted by the flood should follow these steps:  

• Try to limit your contact with the water. Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.
• Stay away from power lines and electrical wires.
• Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to DTE Energy at 1 (800) 477-4747
• Be alert to gas leaks. Turn off the gas to your house before it floods. If you smell gas, report it to a City official or your gas company. Do not use candles, lanterns or open flames if you smell gas or are unsure if your gas has been shut off.
• Look out for animals, especially snakes. Small animals that have been forced out of their homes may seek shelter in yours.
• Get damaged items out to the curb as soon as possible GFL will pick them up within 7 days.
• Fill out the 2021 Flood Damage Report, create an inventory of all damages, email photos and receipts to mroots@cityofinkster.com or dps@cityofinkster.com. This data will help when the city applies for emergency relief funds. You can also download the 2021 Flood Damage Report PDF and return it to the Department of Public Services.

The following websites may also be beneficial to residents seeking flood-related information or assistance:

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): http://www.fema.gov/individual/home.shtm

FEMA Information on Floods and Flash Floods: http://www.fema.gov/hazard/

National Flood Insurance Program: http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/index.jsp?WT.mc_id=YahooSSP&WT.srch=1

National Weather Service: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/

State of Michigan: http://www.michigan.gov/michiganprepares

Flooded Basement Information - Wayne County Department of Public Health: http://www.waynecounty.com/hsem_resources_seasonal_floods.htm

American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.d8aaecf214c576bf971e4cfe43181aa0/?vgnextoid=b3d31b655eb3b110VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD

Please stay safe as we continue to assess, monitor, and address the flooding.

-Mayor Patrick Wimberly