Lansing, Michigan – Northern Michigan’s flooding emergency has not only put homes, roads, and public infrastructure at risk, it has also raised urgent concerns about whether fuel can continue reaching the communities that depend on it.
In response, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2026-6 earlier this week, taking a temporary step aimed at keeping gasoline and diesel moving into the eastern Upper Peninsula and the northern Lower Peninsula as conditions remain unstable.
“Protecting Michiganders and their property is our top priority,” said Governor Whitmer.
“With already high water levels across the state and more rain in the forecast, I am temporarily suspending motor carrier regulations for driver hours to stabilize fuel supplies in key areas of northern Michigan and support local communities, first responders, and utility crews as they work hard to keep people safe. We will keep monitoring the situation and supporting local communities with the resources they need.”
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The order comes after weeks of heavy rain and rapid snowmelt pushed water levels higher across the region, creating widespread flooding in northern Michigan communities. The damage threat has extended beyond neighborhoods and roadways to critical infrastructure, including the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex on the Cheboygan River.
Just recently, Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Cheboygan County to support emergency work around the Cheboygan Dam and reduce the risk of failure or overflow.
That concern reaches beyond flood control. Downstream from the dam, the U.S. Energy Cheboygan petroleum terminal plays an important role in supplying fuel to both the eastern Upper Peninsula and the northern Lower Peninsula.
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But with rising water, floating debris, and the possibility of additional flooding, the terminal owner voluntarily delayed barge deliveries of gasoline and diesel in an effort to protect workers and avoid environmental harm.
Whitmer’s executive order is meant to cushion that disruption. By temporarily relieving certain motor carrier regulations, including driver-hours rules, the state is trying to make it easier to move fuel over land and preserve supply stability in affected areas. The measure is also intended to support first responders, utility crews, and broader public safety operations as local communities continue dealing with the impacts of high water.
The order reflects a broader state effort to stay ahead of a fast-moving emergency while protecting both infrastructure and essential services. More information about emergency preparedness is available through Michigan Ready.