Snyder Declares State of Disaster in 2 UP Counties

Gov. Rick Snyder has declared a state of disaster in the Upper Peninsula counties of Luce and Schoolcraft, where wildfires already have consumed more than 20,000 acres.Snyder's declaration Friday means all state resources will be made available to protect public health and safety in the ongoing efforts to fight the wildfires.
 
The declaration also may permit authorities to evacuate and establishes a fireworks ban in the two affected counties as well as an outdoor burning ban in 49 counties.
 
Snyder also issued an executive order activating the National Guard to provide assistance.
 
The governor said in a statement his office is "committed to work together with local, state and federal emergency personnel to protect our citizens and communities from the dangers of these significant fires."