One Dead After Tornado Strikes Cass County

Widespread damage reported as emergency crews respond to the scene

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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A tornado touched down late Friday afternoon in the southern portion of Cass County, Michigan, near the town of Edwardsburg. The storm caused significant damage to homes, pole barns, and other structures, with one confirmed fatality and multiple injuries reported. Emergency personnel have been deployed to the area to assist with cleanup efforts, which were delayed by heavy rainfall on Friday evening.

Why it matters

Severe weather events like this tornado can have devastating impacts on local communities, causing loss of life, property damage, and disruptions to power and infrastructure. The response from emergency management and relief organizations is crucial to supporting affected residents and restoring normalcy to the area.

The details

According to Cass County Emergency Manager Manny DeLaRosa, the tornado caused damage ranging from major structural impacts to complete destruction of homes and other buildings. Cass County Sheriff Clint Roach reported several injuries and one confirmed fatality. Numerous trees have fallen onto roads and buildings, and more than 500 customers are currently without power. Preliminary reports indicate the damage began just west of Edwardsburg along Conrad Road and continued east past M-62.

  • The tornado touched down late Friday afternoon near Edwardsburg.
  • Heavy rainfall on Friday evening delayed some of the initial cleanup efforts.
  • Damage assessments and additional support efforts are expected to continue on Saturday.

The players

Manny DeLaRosa

Cass County Emergency Manager, responsible for coordinating the emergency response and damage assessments.

Clint Roach

Cass County Sheriff, reported on the injuries and fatality resulting from the storm.

Jeremiah Jones

Cass County Board Chair, issued a local state of emergency to mobilize resources and support for affected residents.

Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC)

The local utility provider, reporting more than 500 customers without power due to the storm.

American Red Cross

Providing on-site assistance to affected residents on Friday evening and returning on Saturday to offer additional support.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to monitor conditions and prepare additional resources, including emergency shelter, should they become necessary.”

— Manny DeLaRosa, Cass County Emergency Manager

“Local resources are being utilized to their fullest extent, and additional assistance may be required to clear debris and support affected residents.”

— Jeremiah Jones, Cass County Board Chair

What’s next

Emergency Management personnel will be conducting damage assessments in the affected area as required by the State of Michigan. Residents should expect these personnel to wear yellow vests and identify themselves as Cass County Emergency Management staff.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the critical role that local authorities and relief organizations play in responding to natural disasters and supporting affected communities. As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather, communities must remain vigilant and invest in resilient infrastructure and emergency response capabilities.