Michigan Governor Declares State of Emergency After Severe Storms

Whitmer activates emergency resources for 32 counties impacted by tornadoes, flooding, and wind damage.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:27pm

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A dramatic, sweeping landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, with a turbulent, stormy sky dominating the scene. The composition uses deep perspective and atmospheric lighting to convey the overwhelming scale and force of the natural elements, dwarfing any physical structures or objects within the frame.A sublime, atmospheric landscape captures the raw power of the severe storms that prompted Michigan's governor to declare a state of emergency.Ann Arbor Today

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency for 32 counties across the state following overnight storms that caused significant damage, including tornadoes, flooding, and straight-line winds. This is the second state of emergency declared by Whitmer in the last week due to severe weather. The state will coordinate with local governments to provide additional resources and support to protect residents and property.

Why it matters

Severe weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, and states must be prepared to respond quickly to protect public safety and infrastructure. This declaration allows Michigan to mobilize emergency resources and funding to assist impacted communities.

The details

The 32 counties under the state of emergency are Alcona, Allegan, Alpena, Antrim, Arenac, Barry, Benzie, Charlevoix, Clare, Crawford, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Iosco, Kalkaska, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Menominee, Missaukee, Montcalm, Montmorency, Newaygo, Oceana, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Osceola, Presque Isle, Roscommon, Saginaw, Shiawassee and Wexford. The National Weather Service confirmed at least five tornadoes, classified as EF-0 and EF-1, touched down in Allegan, Montcalm and Saginaw counties. Damage was also reported in Ann Arbor, including to the roof of the University of Michigan Yost Ice Arena and the collapse of the east wall at Veterans Memorial Park Ice Arena.

  • On April 10, Whitmer declared a state of emergency in Cheboygan County due to rising water levels.
  • On Wednesday, April 15, Whitmer declared the state of emergency for the 32 counties following overnight storms.

The players

Gretchen Whitmer

The Governor of Michigan who declared the state of emergency in response to the severe storms and weather damage.

National Weather Service

The federal agency that confirmed at least five tornadoes touched down in several Michigan counties.

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What they’re saying

“Significant snowmelt, record rain, flooding, straight-line winds, and tornadoes have damaged homes, roads, and businesses. This emergency declaration will help the state deploy additional resources to help local officials and first responders protect Michiganders and their property.”

— Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan

What’s next

The state will continue to coordinate with local governments and monitor the situation. Residents are encouraged to stay updated and follow guidance from their local emergency managers.

The takeaway

This declaration highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events driven by climate change, and the need for states to have robust emergency response plans and resources to protect public safety and critical infrastructure.