Powerful Tornado Devastates Southwest Michigan City

Community members rally to clear debris and support one another after tornado strikes Union City

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A powerful tornado struck the Union City, Michigan community on March 6, causing extensive damage and claiming three lives. The National Weather Service rated the tornado as an EF3, with wind speeds of 150 mph. Residents of the Tuttle Park Drive neighborhood and surrounding areas came together to clear debris, deliver supplies, and offer support in the aftermath.

Why it matters

Tornadoes can cause catastrophic damage to communities, with the potential for loss of life and long-lasting impacts. This event highlights the importance of emergency preparedness, community resilience, and the need for effective disaster response and recovery efforts.

The details

The tornado struck the Tuttle Park Drive neighborhood and surrounding areas of Union City, about 40 miles southeast of Kalamazoo. Structures were reduced to rubble, particularly on Prairie Rose Lane, where three deaths were confirmed. Community members immediately sprang into action, clearing debris, delivering water and food, and supporting one another. Cranes and excavation machines worked nonstop, and volunteers used four-wheelers to carry debris and supplies.

  • The tornado struck on March 6, 2026.
  • By late Friday evening, March 6, road pathways were cleared within Tuttle Park Drive.
  • By early Saturday morning, March 7, community members were on the scene to help clear debris, drop donations, and offer support.

The players

Julie Johnson

A longtime resident of the Tuttle Park Drive neighborhood who planned to put food and supplies on her desk to offer to the community.

Cody Johnson

Julie Johnson's son, who said the structures on Prairie Rose Lane were "not down, they're flat."

Fred Blankenship

The Branch County Sheriff, who held an update on the aftermath of the tornado.

Chris Haenke

A school teacher who planned to retire and live at the lake full-time, but whose house was destroyed by the tornado.

Norma Tuttle

A resident of Tuttle Park Drive for 68 years, whose mother-in-law founded much of the community.

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What they’re saying

“They're not down, they're flat.”

— Cody Johnson (mlive.com)

“Residents didn't even know where they were coming from. They just showed up.”

— Julie Johnson, Longtime resident (mlive.com)

What’s next

Branch County has moved from rescue operations to recovery operations, and the community continues to work together to clear debris and rebuild.

The takeaway

This devastating tornado has brought the Union City community together, showcasing their resilience and the power of neighbors supporting one another in times of crisis. The recovery efforts will be long-lasting, but the community's spirit and determination will be crucial in rebuilding their homes and lives.