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 trapped inside. Fortunately, there were no life-threatening injuries reported in the county, although fewer than 10 non-life-threatening injuries were sustained on the interstate.
The severe weather primarily affected rural areas of Ingham County, causing damage to homes and destruction of barns. However, officials have confirmed that everyone inside houses and buildings in the affected area is safe. The storms also left hundreds of thousands of people without power in southern Michigan and northern Ohio overnight.
In addition to the recent storms, the region experienced heavy rainfall earlier in the week, with some areas receiving 7 to 8 inches of rain. This led to the halting of incoming flights at the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport and the closure of roadways due to flooding. Although about 18% of flights originating from the airport were canceled on Thursday, the roadways have since been reopened.
Authorities are planning to reassess the damage in Ingham County during daylight hours. The National Weather Service Offices in Detroit and Grand Rapids, as well as local emergency management offices, are closely monitoring the situation.
What immediate measures are being taken to address the widespread power outages and minimize the damage caused by the severe thunderstorms in affected areas of Michigan and Ohio
Severe thunderstorms in parts of Michigan and Ohio have resulted in widespread power outages and significant damage. CNN reports that close to 700,000 households and commercial establishments are currently without electricity.
Stay safe everyone!