Ice jam displaces dozens in Big Rapids

BIG RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - An ice jam that flooded more than 60 Big Rapids homes has now frozen -- and frozen out the homeowners indefinitely.

Though the water level dropped about a foot from the high mark around the Muskegon River on Wednesday, many families remain stuck in hotels.

Around 80% of the affected families don't have flood insurance since that particular area is not considered a flood plain.

Janine Carrick and her family -- as did many others -- only had time to grab a suitcase with some clothes because the water was rising so quickly. Now, they're all staying in a Super 8 motel, across the hall from her husband's son and brother.

Though their kids think it's a vacation, the adults are dealing with the stress.

"Everyone here is keeping a positive attitude," she told 24 Hour News 8. "You can only do what you can do. Just take one day at a time and trust in the Good Lord and He will help us."

Public safety officials told people to stay away because of the unstable conditions. It may take months -- perhaps years -- until the mess is completely cleaned up.