MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Michiganders braced a severe winter storm that took place this past weekend. The storm consisted of a wintry mix of snow, ice and freezing rain as well as high winds.

The winter storm also resulted in heavy flooding on local roads throughout the Meridian Township area. The following roads have been closed.
-Okemos Road, Central Park Drive to Gaylord C. Smith Court.
-Nakoma Drive, Huron Hills Drive to Hamilton Road.
-Hillcrest Drive, Okemos Road to Seminole Drive.
-Hickory Island Drive, loop off Lake Drive.
-Tacoma Boulevard (which turns into Birchwood Drive, West of Redwing Drive) from Penobscot Drive to Redwing Drive

The Ingham County Road Department (ICRD) will continue monitoring county roads as further road closures might take effect due to water levels rising in the waterways.

In cases of high water conditions, residents should avoid any roads filled with water as they pose a risk for vehicles to go off the road and road washouts may occur.

Meridian Township Parks like Legg, Ferguson and Wonch are still closed due to flooding and it's important to avoid trails near the river.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Advanced Hydrologic Prediction graph, the Red Cedar River appears to have reached its high point and will begin to slowly recede over the next week.

“Flooding continues to be a significant concern in Meridian Township and has caused some roadways to be temporarily closed to traffic. We will continue to work with our partners at Ingham County to mitigate its impact to our residents. When a road is closed because of flooding, we ask that drivers do not attempt to go around the signs and barricades. Not only is it a traffic violation, it can also unnecessarily place you and our emergency personnel at risk if a vehicle becomes disabled and necessitates a rescue,” said Deputy Township Manager, Derek N. Perry.

Those who have questions or concerns about road flooding can contact the Ingham County Road Department (ICRD) at 517.676.9722. Any matters regarding state (numbered) routes and city streets should contact these appropriate road agencies.

The Michigan State Police also has important flooding safety tips:
-Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
-Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.
-Do not try to take short cuts, they may be blocked. Stick to designated routes.
-Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.