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Severe Storms Leave Thousands Without Power in Michigan

Aftermath of severe storms in Michigan highlighting the destruction and emergency response efforts.

News Summary

A series of severe storms affected southwest Michigan, leaving nearly 200,000 residents without power and prompting numerous school closures. The storms caused significant disruptions, particularly in Kent, Muskegon, and Montcalm counties. Strong straight-line winds, possibly nearing 80 mph, contributed to power outages and damage, while tornadoes were reported in several areas. Emergency teams are responding and restoring power amid ongoing cleanup efforts. Residents are urged to remain cautious as recovery continues.

Michigan – Severe storms that swept through southwest Michigan on Thursday night left nearly 200,000 residents without power and caused numerous school closures across the region. The storm’s impact was felt most acutely in Kent, Muskegon, and Montcalm counties, where many school districts chose to cancel classes on Friday.

Emergency crews responded to downed wires and utility poles, as communities began cleanup efforts in the aftermath of the storms. Power outages were believed to have been caused by strong straight-line winds, which were reported to approach speeds of 80 mph in some areas. Additionally, possible tornadoes were spotted in regions including Caledonia, Martin-Orangeville, Battle Creek, and Dorr, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Rapids to plan surveys to confirm the presence of tornado activity.

As the storm continued to pose risks, a severe thunderstorm watch was issued for southwest and south-central Lower Michigan, extending into Friday evening. The Storm Prediction Center noted that thunderstorms in surrounding areas were likely to generate straight-line winds. Wind gusts in adjacent Illinois had been recorded between 60 mph and 75 mph, suggesting that similar weather conditions were anticipated for Michigan.

Power restoration efforts were underway, with electric services returning to thousands of Grand Rapids residents by Thursday morning after an earlier outage that affected roughly 6,000 customers. However, the specific cause of the initial power disruptions in Grand Rapids remained unclear. Notably, schools such as Congress Elementary, Grand Rapids Montessori Academy, Innovation Central High School, and Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Academy were closed due to the power problems.

The extent of the storm’s damage is still being assessed as utility companies work to restore full electricity to all affected areas. Residents are urged to exercise caution when navigating streets, as debris and hazardous materials from downed power lines remain a concern. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops and cleanup efforts continue.

This weather event comes amid a season characterized by unpredictable and intense storms across the Midwest. Residents in the affected regions are advised to stay informed through local channels to receive updates on safety, power restoration, and any further school closure announcements.