Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency in certain areas of Michigan following the devastating tornadoes that struck the region on Tuesday.
Michigan’s Governor, Whitner, took swift action by declaring a state of emergency for Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, Branch, and Cass counties. In response to a severe storm system, she emphasized the importance of collaboration with emergency teams to closely monitor the situation and provide necessary resources to those impacted. Governor Whitner reassured the community that despite the challenges, the resilience of Michigan will prevail, and together they will rebuild.
On Tuesday, the National Weather Service made history by issuing the first-ever tornado emergency for Michigan. The region experienced severe weather conditions, prompting this unprecedented alert.
Multiple tornado warnings were in effect for southeast Michigan on Tuesday evening. In an unprecedented event, a tornado emergency was issued for Union City, making it the first-ever tornado emergency for the state since records began in 1999.
At 6:11 p.m. ET on Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued a warning about a “confirmed large and destructive tornado” in Union City.
Portage, Michigan’s mayor expressed that the city endured significant devastation to both residential and commercial properties in the wake of two tornadoes that swept through the area. As of Tuesday night, power outages persisted, impeding repair efforts due to fallen trees and wires.
A FedEx facility in Portage was severely damaged, as seen in photos. Officials reported that the facility, which had at least 50 people inside at the time, sustained significant damage. However, authorities stated that there were no reports of any serious injuries. Late Tuesday night, a representative from FedEx confirmed that all team members were accounted for and safe.
The storm caused significant damage to the Pavilion Estates mobile home park, according to Kalamazoo officials.
Whitmer, in her earlier statement, urged individuals to remain vigilant and heed the weather alerts.
In a statement on X, she expressed her heartfelt sympathy for those impacted by the severe weather in southwest Michigan. She acknowledged the efforts of emergency teams on the ground, working hard to assist the affected individuals. Furthermore, she urged everyone to stay vigilant by monitoring severe weather alerts and heeding the advice provided by emergency officials.
After a series of tornadoes were reported in the Plains overnight into Tuesday, the threat of tornadoes has now shifted to the Ohio Valley and parts of the southern Great Lakes on Tuesday afternoon and evening. Approximately 35 million Americans, ranging from Chicago to Nashville, Tennessee, are currently in the storm zone.
Parts of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky are under a tornado watch until Tuesday night. There is a high possibility of a few tornadoes, with damaging gusts of up to 70 mph and hail the size of baseballs.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear is urging residents to brace themselves for severe weather conditions that are expected to impact the state in the coming days. This includes the potential for significant tornadoes, flooding, hail, and strong winds. It is important for everyone to take necessary precautions and be prepared for the potential risks associated with these weather events.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Governor Beshear emphasized the severity of previous experiences with deadly outbreaks. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, he called upon individuals to proactively make plans to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones.
Overnight into Tuesday, seven states reported at least 20 tornadoes, adding to the latest tornado threat.
Tornadoes were sighted in several states including Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Tennessee.
Barnsdall and Bartlesville, Oklahoma, north of Tulsa, were among the areas most severely affected by the storm. The tornado survey conducted by the National Weather Service in Tulsa on Tuesday revealed that there was significant damage near Barnsdall, classified as low-end EF4.
According to Barnsdall Mayor Johnny Kelley, one individual lost their life and multiple people were injured in the tornado that caused “significant damage” in Barnsdall.
Kelley expressed the need for an abundance of prayers during a press briefing following the devastating tornado.
According to Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, around 60 to 70 homes in the small town were completely destroyed, which adds to the total of approximately 350 homes destroyed statewide.
According to Kelley, around 25 individuals were successfully rescued during the initial search. However, there is still one person who has not been located, prompting another search to commence on Tuesday.
According to Stitt, the missing man was conversing with his son on the phone inside his trailer home just moments before the tornado struck. He mentioned that the search efforts involve police K-9 units.
“We’re holding onto hope and praying for a miracle,” Stitt expressed to reporters during a press briefing on Tuesday evening.
Governor Stitt has taken action by declaring a state of emergency for multiple counties in Oklahoma in response to the extreme weather conditions.
Barnsdall recently experienced its second devastating tornado in a matter of weeks.
“It’s absolutely heartbreaking for the individuals in this community,” Kelley expressed with deep sadness. “This unexpected turn of events will undoubtedly have a profound impact on their lives.”
The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, had issued the most severe weather risk alert possible for multiple intense, long-track tornadoes on Monday afternoon and evening.
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