With many parts of Michigan experiencing severe flooding due to melting snow and rain, state officials are advising residents what to do if in an area under threat.

If more rain falls — the National Weather Service predicts up to 3 inches in some areas — conditions could worsen, with additional flooding and even flash flooding possible.

Risks from flooding, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, can include —

— Exposure to contaminants in flood water, including E. coli, heavy metals and petrochemicals;

— Injury from floating debris;

— Power outages;

— Road washouts;

— Damage and contamination to drinking water systems; and

— Mental stress from repeated storms and flood cleanup.

“Even if people are not currently in a flooded area, conditions can change rapidly. Residents are encouraged to monitor health and safety alerts issued by their local media and local emergency response agencies as flooding can quickly create dangerous conditions,” Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive, said in a news release.

Safety tips for dealing with flooding —

— Follow all emergency orders.

— Standing water can be deceiving — do not attempt to drive or walk through flooding water on the roadway. Six inches of water is enough to lose control of your vehicle.

— Floodwater could cover live, downed electrical lines or other hazards.

— For downed trees or debris blocking travel, call 911.

— For downed power lines, stay at least 25 feet away and contact the local electric provider.

— During flooding, move to higher ground, if advised, and keep emergency supplies ready, such as food, flashlights, water, etc.

State and local agencies have published information that can help residents plan for weather-related emergencies, including —

— The Flood Safety Series: “Preparing for floods,” “Staying safe during a flood” and “Staying safe after a flood.” Find it at https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/safety-injury-prev/environmental-health/topics/climate/resources?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#:~:text=Michigan%20Flood%20Safety%20Fact%20Sheet%20Series.

— MDHHS Michigan Prepares website, which shares a variety of preparedness resources, including guidance on “How to Create Your Emergency Plan.” It is at https://www.michigan.gov/michiganprepares?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.

— Michigan State Police’s MIREADY webpage, which contains emergency planning information, including Pet Preparedness. It is at https://www.michigan.gov/michiganprepares?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.

— The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy’s fact sheet, “Protecting Your Private Water Supply in an Emergency,” is for well owners. It is at https://www.michigan.gov/egle/-/media/Project/Websites/egle/Documents/Programs/DWEHD/Water-Well-Construction/Protecting-Your-Private-Water-Supply-in-an-Emergency.pdf?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

— The MDHHS website offers resources that can help residents avoid carbon monoxide poisoning if they use generators during power outages. It is at https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/-/media/Project/Websites/mdhhs/Safety-and-Injury-Prevention/Environmental-Health/Carbon-Monoxide/Documents/CO_Prevention_Fact_Sheet.pdf?rev=907097f818c44d4a910ffd0fb4ce4734&utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.

— Michigan Public Service Commission website offers information about outage credits due to lengthy power outages, at https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.

Residents can also stay informed by signing up for local community alerts. Some local health departments also have emergency planning information that may be more relevant to county-specific concerns.

The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division has activated the Joint Information Center as the source of state agency information dissemination. Find links to and sign up to receive MSP and SEOC news releases and follow Facebook and X or the latest information from the JIC.

For tips on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, go to MIReady, https://www.michigan.gov/miready.