Flooding traps people in cars, homes in Dearborn Heights neighborhood

DEARBORN HEIGHTS, Mich. (FOX 2) - The City of Dearborn Heights has contacted the State of Michigan to make an emergency declaration after severe flooding Wednesday morning. 

The hardest hit area is near the Ecorse Creek Watershed, which is near Van Born Road between S Gulley Road and Telegraph, by the Ecorse River.

Firefighters were going door to door early Wednesday morning helping people evacuate if needed. Firefighters were also seen carrying two women who were trapped in their flooded car to safety. 

Later in the morning, rescue teams had to come in by boat to get some people out of their homes where water was about waist-deep. 

If you are stalled in your car or trapped inside, stay inside and call 911. Dearborn Heights Fire Chief Dave Brogan says they've received about 30 calls for service Wednesday morning. 

The City has opened a shelter at the Justice Center on Beech Daly and Michigan Avenue for anyone who does not feel safe in their home

City officials say over 100 homes in this area are affected by the flooding. They expect it'll take 36 hours for the water to recede - if it doesn't rain at all anymore. More rain is in the forecast though Wednesday afternoon and evening. 

You can keep an eye on the rain and the radar with your FOX 2 weather app. 

Roads and parts of freeways were closed all over the metro area Wednesday morning for flooding. Some schools in Wayne County even needed to close.

If you encounter a flooded road, do not attempt to pass. Turn around and try a different route. 

MSP is reminding drivers this morning it only takes about 6 inches of water to lose control of your car - and 12 inches to start floating. If your car stalls, stay inside and call 911. 

MDOT Metro Detroit also shared a picture of several stalled, underwater cars in Taylor as a warning.