US: Tornadoes kill several people in Michigan, Oklahoma

US: Tornadoes kill several people in Michigan, Oklahoma

Two tornadoes in the U.S. states of Oklahoma and Michigan resulted in multiple fatalities. Emergency teams are currently searching for survivors and delivering aid to impacted communities. Severe weather systems swept across the central region on Friday and Saturday, causing significant damage and claiming several lives. A total of eight individuals have been reported dead due to the extreme conditions.

Four deaths occurred in Oklahoma, according to officials. The state governor, Kevin Stitt, shared on X that a tornado hit Major County, killing a mother and daughter. Meanwhile, Michigan recorded four fatalities, with the Branch County Sheriff’s Office stating that a twister struck near Union City, killing three and injuring twelve. “Our thoughts are with those who have lost family, friends, and property during this incident,” the office added in a statement.

“Severe weather struck Major County last night and tragically claimed the lives of a mother and daughter,” Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt posted on X.

Further west, a tornado in Cass County reportedly left one person dead and over 500 residents without electricity. On Saturday, rescue efforts continued under rubble, while authorities began clearing debris from the affected areas. Relief workers visited Union City and Three Rivers to provide meals and support to survivors.

“Our thoughts are with those who have lost family, friends, and property during this incident,” the Branch County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

Lonnie Fisher of the National Weather Service noted that severe thunderstorms originated in Indiana, spawning multiple tornadoes into southern Michigan. “Mostly likely there were three distinct tornadoes, but we won’t know 100% for sure until they finish the survey,” he explained. Teams were dispatched to assess damage and confirm the tornadoes. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer activated a state emergency operations center to manage the response in southwestern Michigan.

The National Weather Service warned of strong storms and flash flood risks on Saturday, affecting areas from the midwestern Great Lakes to Texas. These spring storms typically occur during tornado season, which varies by region. Tornadoes can develop rapidly, sometimes within minutes, forcing individuals to seek shelter with little warning.