At least six dead after tornadoes sweep across Michigan and Oklahoma, officials say
At Least Six Dead Following Tornadoes in Michigan and Oklahoma
Severe tornadoes have caused fatalities and injuries across Michigan and Oklahoma, according to official reports. A minimum of six individuals lost their lives, with over a dozen others sustaining injuries during the storm events. In southern Michigan, four deaths were confirmed, while two fatalities were recorded in Oklahoma on Friday.
Authorities noted that the storms led to widespread destruction, including uprooted trees, power lines brought down, structural damage to buildings, and roofs torn from several homes. The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that intense weather conditions might persist through the weekend, anticipating thunderstorms and flash flooding from the Great Plains to Texas.
Michigan Counties Report Significant Losses
Branch County officials reported three fatalities and 12 injuries near Union City after a tornado struck. They also mentioned potential power outages and road closures over the weekend. In Cass County, approximately 50 miles away, one death and multiple injuries were documented. Damage to large structures, such as homes and pole barns, ranged from severe structural impacts to total collapse.
“Multiple large structures – including homes and pole barns – sustained damage ranging from major structural impacts to complete destruction,” stated local authorities in a press release.
Videos circulating on social media captured the chaotic scenes in Union City, showing massive whirlwinds and debris flying across car parks in Three Rivers. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state emergency for Branch, Cass, and St Joseph counties, expressing solidarity with affected families.
“My heart is with the families who lost loved ones and the Michiganders who were injured yesterday,” Whitmer said, while coordinating with emergency teams to provide resources.
In Oklahoma, Okmulgee County’s emergency manager, Jeff Moore, described a 4-mile path of destruction caused by a tornado. “We’re just getting everywhere as fast as we can, clearing roads as fast as we can,” he added. The sheriff’s office confirmed two deaths in Beggs, Oklahoma.
“We are working with emergency teams to monitor the situation and coordinate resources for those impacted,” said officials.
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt extended a state of emergency to eight counties, including Alfalfa, Creek, and Major, to ensure residents receive necessary support following the storms. Recovery operations are ongoing as crews assess the full scope of damage.