Four Dead, 12 Injured as Tornadoes Hit Michigan

At least four people have died, and more than a dozen others were injured after tornadoes struck Michigan on Friday, according to local authorities and media reports.

The Branch County Sheriff’s Office said a tornado near Union City in the southern part of the state left three people dead and injured at least 12 others.

About 50 miles away in Cass County, officials confirmed that another tornado killed one person and caused several injuries.

Authorities in Branch County expressed condolences to the families affected, noting that residents had lost relatives, friends and property as a result of the disaster.

“Our thoughts are with those who have lost family, friends, and property during this incident.”

Officials in Cass County reported widespread damage in the area, including trees that had fallen onto roads and buildings. Power outages were also recorded, leaving more than 500 people without electricity.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said the state had activated its emergency operations centre to coordinate response efforts to the severe weather in southwestern Michigan.

Whitmer also commended first responders for their swift action in assisting residents and helping to keep communities safe during the incident.

Emergency management teams were expected to begin assessing the extent of the damage in the affected communities as required by the state authorities.