MARQUETTE, MI-- Thursday’s severe storms and heavy rains caused a few problems in the Upper Peninsula.
Several inches of water accumulated in some Escanaba intersections, causing small lakes for motorists to drive through; up to 1.5 inches of rain an hour fell in the Iron Mountain area; and the Stephenson School District dismissed school early because of power outage issues.
The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood warning until midnight for Baraga, Marquette, Alger, and Luce Counties. Strong winds and rain caused a displacement of water on Lake Superior, called a “seiche”. Around 4:30 p.m. the displacement in Marquette was about 1.5 feet of water. Levels fluctuated quickly, making the coastline potentially dangerous. Marquette beaches were closed, the North Breakwall was locked, and boaters were advised to make sure their vessels were safe.