Despite flooding in Au Train, high wind gusts and numerous cars in the ditch, there were no reported injuries or fatalities during the Christmas blizzard, according to the Alger County Sheriff’s Office.

“This was the biggest storm in a while,” Alger County Sheriff Todd Brock said. “We dodged a bullet with all of the wind and snow.”

During the three-day storm, Munising and Alger County had some of the strongest wind gusts in the region, but there were no major power outages reported in the area. Keeping the power on can help provide lifesaving equipment to those in need.

According to Brock, the county had to deal with multiple motorists stranded off the side of the roads. While the people in the vehicles were eventually assisted, it forced first responders and private tow companies out in the dangerous weather. Downstate Michigan law enforcement were not as lucky as Alger County. According to the Detroit Free Press, four troopers were hospitalized after they were struck by vehicles after getting out of their cruisers to help other motorists.

“It’s our local responders that then have to go out and help, which puts our staff in danger for these vehicles that shouldn’t be out in this weather. It’s a significant risk Brock pushed for safe driving practices like taking extra time to travel, giving extra space between vehicles and slowing down for vehicles on the side of the road. He also said that being proactive in checking the weather can be helpful.

“Radar these days are very accurate. Best thing you have is your local radar where you pull up a website and you have the images right there,” he said.

Updates for other winter situations like ice conditions are also available on the county sheriff’s website. The public is also welcome to call the sheriff’s office for information as well.