Severe thunderstorms have caused widespread power outages and damage in parts of Michigan and Ohio. According to CNN, nearly 700,000 homes and businesses are without power as a result of the forceful storms. The region has experienced heavy rains, strong winds, and at least one confirmed tornado.
The storms moved from southern Michigan into Ohio overnight, bringing with them the threat of powerful wind gusts of up to 85 mph, hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter, and possible tornadoes. Northern portions of Ohio are under flood watches until 8 a.m. ET Friday due to excessive rainfall.
In Ingham County, Michigan, a large and “extremely dangerous” tornado was confirmed near Williamston at about 9:30 p.m. Thursday. Storm conditions caused several vehicles on nearby Interstate 96 to overturn, with some drivers reportedly pinned inside their vehicles. Fortunately, there were no life-threatening injuries reported in Ingham County, although fewer than 10 non-life-threatening injuries were sustained on the interstate.
The severe weather mainly affected a rural area of the county, causing damage to homes and destruction of barns. However, everyone inside houses and buildings remained safe. The storms also left hundreds of thousands of people without power in southern Michigan and northern Ohio overnight.
In Detroit, a powerful gust of 70 mph was reported during the storms. These severe weather conditions followed an earlier round of heavy rainfall that brought 7 to 8 inches of rain in some areas of southern Michigan and northern Ohio. The earlier downpours caused disruptions at the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, with incoming flights temporarily halted. Additionally, road closures were prompted by overnight flooding. However, the roadways were reopened later in the day.
Officials plan to reassess the damage caused by the storms during daylight hours. CNN’s Andy Rose, Paradise Afshar, and Michelle Watson contributed to this report.
What are the immediate relief efforts and resources being provided to the 700,000 households affected by the power outages and extensive damage caused by severe thunderstorms in Michigan and Ohio?
Have been affected by the power outages and extensive damage as severe thunderstorms swept through regions of Michigan and Ohio. CNN reports that the number of affected households stands at nearly 700,000. These severe storms have caused significant disruptions and challenges for residents in these areas.
