Severe Thunderstorm in Michigan
A severe weather system has struck Michigan, leaving three people dead and over 307,000 residents without power. A tornado warning was issued for Lansing and surrounding areas, with damaging winds and large hail expected. The storm has resulted in widespread power outages, prompting a state of emergency declaration by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Recovery efforts are underway as communities work together to restore power and assess damage.
The weather in Michigan certainly took a turn for the worse, with a severe weather system moving through that left many residents reeling. On Sunday evening, the National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for the Lansing area, urging everyone to take cover. This warning was in effect until 7:15 p.m. and included other areas like Holt, Mason, and Michigan State University.
Alongside the tornado warning, a severe thunderstorm warning was put in place for Lansing and significant portions of Jackson, Ingham, Gratiot, Clinton, and Eaton counties, lasting until 7:30 p.m. Storms were expected to whip through Southwest and West Michigan with damaging winds reaching up to 70 mph. A severe thunderstorm watch was also implemented for much of Lower Michigan, including Lansing, extending until 9 p.m. on Sunday. These storms were predicted to move at speeds nearing 50 mph, bringing with them winds powerful enough to exceed 60 mph, along with the possibility of hail larger than one inch and isolated tornadoes.
Residents were advised to take cover, particularly in basements where possible, as the hazardous weather outlook warned of damaging winds and large hail. While Lansing was categorized as having a slight risk for severe storms, areas to the south faced an enhanced risk of severe weather. Sunday’s high temperature was noted to hit around 67 degrees, accompanied by an 80% chance of rain and wind gusts up to 25 mph.
As if that weren’t enough, the storm led to widespread power outages affecting approximately 307,000 customers across Michigan. Utility companies like Consumers Energy, Great Lakes Energy, DTE, and Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op reported significant outages caused by the strong winds, with some areas experiencing winds exceeding 95 mph. Restoration efforts are anticipated to span several days, with some residents potentially left without power until April 2.
In response to the disaster, Governor Gretchen Whitmer activated the State of Emergency Operations Center to provide support to local officials. This activation comes alongside unfortunate news of a tragic incident where three family members lost their lives when a tree fell on their vehicle during the storm in Kalamazoo County. Several others were injured, with one in critical condition.
As storm damages continue to be assessed and recovery efforts ramp up, residents in affected areas are encouraged to stay informed about the weather and remain in contact with local authorities for updates. With power restoration efforts underway and communities banding together, there is hope that life may soon return to normal for many Michiganders.
Stay safe and stay prepared, Michigan!
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