Urban Flash Floods in Grand Rapids, MI – FAQs

Urban flash flooding is a real risk in West Michigan, especially during heavy summer thunderstorms and rapid snowmelt in spring. Understanding how flash floods happen in Grand Rapids and how to stay safe can help protect you, your family, and your property.

What is flash flooding?

Flash flooding happens when short, intense bursts of rain overwhelm the ground and drainage systems, causing water levels to rise very quickly—often within minutes to a few hours.

In Grand Rapids, flash flooding most often occurs:

• During severe thunderstorms in late spring and summer
• When frozen or saturated ground in late winter/early spring can’t absorb rain or melting snow
• Near low-lying areas, underpasses, and along creeks and storm drains

Flash floods are one of the most dangerous types of flooding in the United States because water rises quickly and can catch people off guard. Many injuries and deaths occur when people walk or drive into floodwaters.

Local Grand Rapids risk areas

Urban flash flooding can occur almost anywhere in the city, but higher-risk locations include:

• Low-lying intersections and underpasses (e.g., some stretches of US‑131 and I‑196 underpasses)
• Areas near storm drains, culverts, and small creeks
• Parking lots around shopping centers and large office complexes
• Older neighborhoods with aging stormwater systems

What is urban flooding?

Urban flooding happens when heavy rain falls on built-up areas and the water has nowhere to go.

In Grand Rapids:

• Hard surfaces like roofs, streets, sidewalks, and driveways prevent water from soaking into the soil.
• Stormwater systems (gutters, storm drains, pipes) can handle only a certain amount of rain.
• During intense storms, excess water flows overland instead of underground.

This can cause:

• Roads to turn into rivers
• Parking lots to become temporary lakes
• Underpasses and basements to rapidly fill with water

Even if you don’t live near the Grand River, you can still experience serious urban flash flooding during West Michigan’s heavy rain events.

Is urban flash flooding dangerous?

Yes. Urban flash flooding in Grand Rapids can be life-threatening and can cause serious injury, even in familiar neighborhoods.

Physical hazards in floodwater

Floodwater can hide:

• Sharp objects (glass, metal, nails, debris)
• Uneven ground (potholes, curbs, tree roots, broken pavement)
• Slippery surfaces (mud, algae, oil)
• Open manholes or storm drains

These hazards can lead to:

• Cuts and puncture wounds
• Sprains and broken bones
• Falls that can cause head injuries or drowning

Drowning risks

Flood water poses drowning risks for everyone, regardless of swimming ability.

• Just 6 inches (15 cm) of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet.
• About 12 inches (30 cm) of moving water can float a small car.
• Children are especially vulnerable, even in shallow standing water.

Can floodwater in Grand Rapids make me sick?

Yes. Floodwater in urban areas often contains contaminants and disease-causing germs.

In Grand Rapids, heavy rain can cause:

• Sewer overflows and backups
• Runoff from roads, parking lots, industrial areas, and lawns
• Contamination from animal waste and trash

Floodwater may contain:

• Bacteria such as E. coli
• Viruses, including those that can cause hepatitis A and gastrointestinal infections
• Chemicals and oils from roads and vehicles
• Mold spores and other irritants

Health risks include:

• Gastrointestinal illnesses (diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, fever)
• Skin infections and dermatitis
• Eye infections and conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Ear, nose, and throat infections
• Wound infections, especially in cuts exposed to floodwater

How can I reduce my risk if I must walk in floodwater?

If you cannot avoid walking through floodwater in Grand Rapids, take these precautions:

• Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes (not flip-flops or open sandals).
• Avoid grassy or soft areas where you can’t see the ground.
• Only walk where you can see the surface beneath the water and know there is a hard surface underneath.
• Use a stick or umbrella to test water depth and check for obstacles.
• Keep children and pets out of floodwater whenever possible.
• Be aware that water levels can change quickly, especially near storm drains and culverts.

After exposure:

• Wash any skin that touched floodwater with soap and clean water as soon as possible.
• Remove and wash clothing and shoes thoroughly and allow them to dry completely.
• Cover any cuts or scrapes with clean, waterproof bandages.

What should I do if I have cuts or wounds exposed to floodwater?

If you have an open cut, scratch, or sore that has been in contact with floodwater:

1. Clean the wound right away

   • Wash with soap and clean water for several minutes.
   • Gently remove any visible dirt or debris.

2. Protect the wound

   • Dry the area and cover it with a clean bandage or dressing.
   • Change the bandage regularly and keep the wound dry and clean.

3. Watch for signs of infection
   Contact a doctor (your primary care provider or an urgent care clinic such as Spectrum Health Urgent Care or Metro Health Urgent Care) immediately if you notice:

   • Redness spreading around the wound
   • Swelling or warmth
   • Pain that is getting worse
   • Pus or other discharge
   • Fever or feeling generally unwell

4. Ask about tetanus vaccination

   • If you have a deep or dirty wound and are unsure about your tetanus shot status, contact your doctor or an urgent care clinic in Grand Rapids.
   • You may need a tetanus booster.

What if I develop stomach or eye symptoms after being in floodwater?

After contact with floodwater, call your doctor, an urgent care clinic, or Spectrum Health Now / Trinity Health virtual care if you:

• Develop diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or fever
• Have eye redness, pain, discharge, light sensitivity, or blurred vision
• Have symptoms that last more than a day or are getting worse

In an emergency (trouble breathing, confusion, severe pain), call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department (e.g., Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital, Trinity Health Grand Rapids Hospital, or Metro Health Hospital).

Is it safe to drive during an urban flash flood in Grand Rapids?

Driving during flash flooding in Grand Rapids can be extremely dangerous.

Heavy rain and flooding:

• Make roads slippery from oil and other contaminants
• Reduce visibility
• Decrease brake effectiveness
• Can hide deep water, potholes, and washed-out sections of road

Safe driving tips in heavy rain

If you’re caught in a torrential downpour:

• Pull over in a safe place (not in low-lying areas) and wait for the rain to ease if possible.
• If you must keep driving:
  • Slow down and increase following distance.
  • Turn on your headlights (not high beams).
  • Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.

Never drive through floodwater

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
• Just 12 inches (30 cm) of moving water can float a small car.
• You cannot reliably judge depth or road damage under muddy or murky water.
• If water is above the lowest point on your wheel rim, do not drive through.

If you must cross shallow standing water:

• Proceed very slowly and steadily.
• After exiting the water, gently tap your brakes a few times to help dry the brake pads.

If your vehicle stalls in rising water:

• Exit the vehicle immediately if it is safe to do so.
• Move to higher ground and call 911 if you are in danger.

How can I stay informed about flash flood warnings in Grand Rapids?

Staying informed is critical during severe weather in West Michigan, especially during spring thaw and summer storms.

Check official weather and emergency alerts

• National Weather Service (NWS) Grand Rapids

  • Website: https://www.weather.gov/grr
  • Look for Flash Flood Watches and Flash Flood Warnings for Kent County.

• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)

  • Enable emergency alerts on your smartphone for flood and severe weather warnings.

• Kent County Emergency Management & Kent County Sheriff’s Office

  • Websites and social media provide local updates on flooding, road closures, and evacuations.

• Kent County Health Department & Grand Rapids Public Health resources

  • Provide health guidance on water safety, mold, and cleanup after floods.

Local media and travel information

• Tune in to local TV and radio stations (including local ABC, WOOD-TV8, FOX17, and other West Michigan outlets) for emergency broadcasts.
• Check MDOT Mi Drive or local traffic apps for road closures and safe travel routes.
• Follow City of Grand Rapids and Kent County on social media for local alerts.

Local resources and where to get help in Grand Rapids

In an emergency, always call 911.

For non-emergency help and information:

• Kent County Health Department

  • Health advice, vaccinations (including tetanus), and guidance on water safety and mold after flooding.

• Your primary care provider (PCP) or pediatrician

  • For follow-up care, wound checks, and vaccines.

• Urgent care and walk-in clinics

  • Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health clinics across the metro area.

• City of Grand Rapids & Kent County offices

  • Information on stormwater management, reporting blocked drains, and local flooding issues.

• Your insurance company

  • For property damage, vehicle damage, and cleanup coverage.

If you are unsure where to start, you can also call Michigan 2-1-1, a free statewide service that connects residents to local resources, including shelters, food, and crisis support after disasters.

Key Points for Grand Rapids Residents

• Urban flash flooding can happen quickly during heavy rain or rapid snowmelt, even far from the Grand River.
• Floodwaters may contain sharp objects and hidden hazards that can cause serious injury.
• Floodwater poses drowning risks for everyone, including strong swimmers.
• Urban floodwater may contain toxins, chemicals, and pathogens such as E. coli and the virus that causes hepatitis A.
• Avoid contact with floodwater whenever possible, and wash skin, clothing, and shoes thoroughly if exposed.
• Seek medical advice from a Grand Rapids healthcare provider if you develop gastrointestinal symptoms, eye problems, or signs of wound infection after exposure to floodwater.

Being prepared, staying informed, and knowing how to respond during urban flash floods can help keep you and your family safe in Grand Rapids, Michigan.