Portage, Michigan – Severe storms wreaked havoc in the Midwest early Wednesday, following reports of tornadoes in Portage, Michigan, where homes and commercial buildings, including a FedEx facility, were destroyed. Tornadoes were also reported in parts of Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri, with additional areas under tornado watch, according to the National Weather Service. The storms came shortly after a deadly tornado struck an Oklahoma town.
In southwestern Michigan, two reported tornadoes hit Portage near Kalamazoo on Tuesday night, causing significant damage and power outages affecting over 20,000 people. A FedEx facility was torn apart, trapping around 50 people inside due to downed power lines. Fortunately, all individuals were reported safe.
The storm left more than 30,000 customers without power in Michigan and an additional 10,000 in Ohio. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency in four counties, acknowledging the impact of the severe weather on the region.
National Weather Service crews were dispatched to assess storm damage in several counties in Michigan’s southwest Lower Peninsula to determine if tornadoes had touched down in those areas. Meteorologist Mike Sutton emphasized the importance of verifying tornado reports to ensure the accuracy of information.
The storms in Michigan were part of a larger pattern of severe weather across the central United States, with other states experiencing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and tornadoes. The Midwest and South are expected to face continued severe weather throughout the week, affecting millions of residents in cities like Indianapolis, Memphis, Nashville, St. Louis, and Cincinnati.
In Oklahoma, a violent tornado hit the town of Barnsdall, leading to fatalities and extensive property damage. Governor Kevin Stitt announced financial assistance for storm-damaged communities, pledging $45 million in state funds to support recovery efforts.
The Midwest and South remain on high alert for further severe weather, highlighting the ongoing threat of tornadoes and the importance of preparedness in at-risk regions. The recent spate of storms serves as a reminder of the destructive power of nature and the need for community resilience in the face of natural disasters.