Severe Storms and Tornadoes Cause Destruction Across Midwest, Michigan Governor Declares State of Emergency

A series of tornadoes tore through several communities in Michigan on Tuesday evening, causing widespread destruction as severe storms pounded the Midwest. The onslaught of tornadoes came just a day after similar weather events in the southern Plains resulted in the loss of at least one life and extensive damage to numerous homes.

Reports from Kalamazoo County in Southern Michigan revealed the devastating aftermath of the tornadoes. The city of Portage, home to approximately 50,000 residents, bore the brunt of the destruction, with streets strewn with debris from downed power lines, trees, and buildings. The disastrous impact prompted Governor Gretchen Whitmer to declare a state of emergency for Kalamazoo County and its neighboring counties of St. Joseph, Branch, and Cass. These areas also faced the brunt of the storms, including large hail.

Extent of Damage

According to official statements, at least two tornadoes wreaked havoc across the region, causing widespread damage. The Kalamazoo County Office of Emergency Management's spokesman, Andrew Alspach, reported significant destruction, including damage to a FedEx facility in Portage. Despite the severity of the impact, FedEx confirmed that there were no reports of serious injuries at the facility.