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Grand Rapids Dam Removal Uncovers Original Rapids as Restoration Project Advances

Grand Rapids Dam Removal Uncovers Original Rapids as Restoration Project Advances

In Grand Rapids, Michigan, the ongoing project to restore the rapids in the Grand River has revealed evidence of the city's original rapids. Nearly half of one of the downtown dams has been removed, and boulders are being strategically placed to recreate the river's natural flow. The project, led by Grand Rapids WhiteWater, aims to return the river to its historical state, a process that has been nearly two decades in the making. During excavation, crews discovered a limestone formation believed to be part of the original rapids. The project is expected to continue through the current construction season and into 2027, with the dry summer weather aiding progress by keeping water levels low.
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Federal Agencies Warn of Cyberattacks on Water Systems Across Multiple States

Federal Agencies Warn of Cyberattacks on Water Systems Across Multiple States

Federal authorities, including the FBI and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have issued warnings about a series of cyberattacks targeting water and wastewater systems in at least seven states since July 27, 2026. These attacks have caused operational disruptions and exposed vulnerabilities in critical public services. The cyber actors targeted internet-facing Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), which are essential for monitoring and controlling industrial equipment at these facilities. The attacks have led to issues such as flooding and pressure loss in affected systems. Federal officials have urged water utilities to enhance their cybersecurity measures by removing exposed control systems from the public internet. The states affected have not been fully disclosed, but incidents have been reported in Minnesota, Michigan, South Dakota, and California.
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FBI Investigates Cyberattacks on Water Systems in Michigan and Minnesota

FBI Investigates Cyberattacks on Water Systems in Michigan and Minnesota

Michigan has reported cyberattacks on nine of its water systems, joining Minnesota, which earlier reported similar attacks on over 30 water systems. These incidents are under investigation by the FBI, with suspicions pointing towards Iranian hackers who have been previously warned about targeting such infrastructure. Despite the attacks, Michigan officials have assured that all systems are operating safely without any public health concerns. The attacks involved attempts to tamper with operational technology, which is used to remotely monitor and control water system equipment. In Minnesota, some communities experienced temporary disruptions, such as the city of Braham, which asked residents to minimize water use while addressing the issue. The FBI and other federal agencies are actively working to protect critical infrastructure from these cyber threats.
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President Trump Accuses Minnesota Governor of Incompetence Amid Cyberattacks on Water Systems

President Trump Accuses Minnesota Governor of Incompetence Amid Cyberattacks on Water Systems

President Donald Trump has accused Minnesota Governor Tim Walz of incompetence following cyberattacks on the state's water systems, despite ongoing investigations into potential Iranian involvement. The attacks targeted systems used to remotely monitor and control water utilities, affecting over 30 systems in Minnesota. Federal agencies, including the FBI, are investigating the attacks, which have also been reported in other states like Georgia and Michigan. Governor Walz has criticized federal cuts to cybersecurity agencies, which he claims have left the U.S. exposed to such threats. The situation has prompted warnings from federal agencies to water utilities nationwide.
Detroit Free Press Detroit Free Press
Michigan investigating cyberattack on water infrastructure: report

Michigan investigating cyberattack on water infrastructure: report

Michigan is among the states reporting a "coordinated cyberattack" similar to the one that targeted more than 30 community water systems in Minnesota.
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Cyberattacks Target U.S. Water Systems Across Multiple States, Raising Security Concerns

Cyberattacks Target U.S. Water Systems Across Multiple States, Raising Security Concerns

A series of cyberattacks have targeted water systems in at least seven U.S. states, with officials and experts warning that the scope may be even broader. The attacks, which are suspected to be orchestrated by Iran, have not yet resulted in any alterations to water supplies or made them unsafe to drink. However, state and local officials are on high alert, monitoring vulnerable computer systems used to manage water quality, including chemical-treatment levels and water pressure. Minnesota was the first state to publicly report the attacks, followed by Michigan, which has also confirmed that its systems were targeted. The situation is being closely monitored as authorities work to safeguard the nation's water supply.
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Northern Lights Forecasted to Illuminate Parts of the U.S. This Weekend

Northern Lights Forecasted to Illuminate Parts of the U.S. This Weekend

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center has forecasted that the northern lights, or aurora borealis, will be visible across parts of the northern United States and much of Canada from July 31 through August 2. This phenomenon occurs when charged solar particles interact with Earth's atmosphere, creating colorful displays of light. The forecast suggests that states such as Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan may experience these celestial displays. The event is driven by a recent solar eruption and a coronal hole, which are expected to enhance auroral activity.
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Michigan Faces Over 10,000 Cases of Cyclospora Parasite Outbreak

Michigan Faces Over 10,000 Cases of Cyclospora Parasite Outbreak

Michigan is experiencing a significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms, with over 10,700 cases reported. The outbreak, linked to contaminated lettuce from Taylor Farms, has led to nearly 200 hospitalizations. While the number of new cases appears to be declining, Michigan remains the hardest-hit state in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported nearly 18,000 cases nationwide, with Michigan accounting for a substantial portion. The outbreak has prompted a recall of lettuce distributed by Taylor Farms, although the FDA has noted that initial tests linking the outbreak to the supplier were false positives.
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Battle Creek Police Recover $16,000 in Stolen Property in Bedford Township

Battle Creek Police Recover $16,000 in Stolen Property in Bedford Township

The Battle Creek Police Department (BCPD) successfully recovered and returned over $16,000 worth of stolen property following an investigation in Bedford Township, Michigan. Acting on a tip, BCPD officers conducted a 'knock-and-talk' investigation at a residence on Q Drive, where they discovered stolen tools linked to a previous investigation. A search warrant was obtained and executed, leading to the recovery of the stolen items, which have since been returned to their rightful owners. The investigation remains active, and no suspects have been named at this time.
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Battle Creek Police Recover Over $16,000 in Stolen Property, Return to Owners

Battle Creek Police Recover Over $16,000 in Stolen Property, Return to Owners

The Battle Creek Police Department (BCPD) successfully recovered and returned more than $16,000 worth of stolen property to its rightful owners following an investigation in Bedford Township, Michigan. Acting on a tip, BCPD officers conducted a 'knock-and-talk' investigation at a residence on Q Drive, where they discovered stolen tools linked to a previous police investigation. Detectives obtained a search warrant based on evidence gathered during the initial contact, leading to the recovery of the stolen items. The investigation remains active, and no names have been released at this time.
Detroit Free Press Detroit Free Press
Driving isn't the time to be watching a movie

Driving isn't the time to be watching a movie

The director of Michigan's Office of Highway Safety Planning says it's not OK to watch videos while driving even if your phone is mounted in your car.
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South Haven Natural Gas Odor Caused by Odor Machine Malfunction, No Hazard Present

South Haven Natural Gas Odor Caused by Odor Machine Malfunction, No Hazard Present

Residents and businesses in South Haven, Michigan, reported a strong smell of natural gas, prompting responses from South Haven Area Emergency Services (SHAES). The odor was traced to a malfunction in the equipment used by Michigan Gas Utilities (MGU) to add mercaptan, a chemical that gives natural gas its distinctive smell. Despite the odor, MGU confirmed there was no gas-related hazard. The malfunction led to an excess release of mercaptan, causing the widespread smell. SHAES continues to respond to calls as a precautionary measure.