Deadly Tornadoes Rip Through Michigan, Causing Widespread Damage

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Multiple tornadoes touched down across Southwest Michigan on Friday, with the deadliest striking Union City and killing three people. The Union City tornado has been initially rated as an EF3 with 150 mph winds, while a tornado in Three Rivers was rated as an EF2 with 130 mph winds. Another tornado in Edwardsburg killed a 12-year-old boy, and a fourth tornado near Tekonsha was rated as an EF0 with 85 mph winds. Damage assessments and surveys are still ongoing to determine the full extent and intensity of the storms.

Why it matters

The tornadoes that hit Michigan on March 6th were some of the most destructive the state has seen in decades, resulting in multiple fatalities and widespread property damage. The initial ratings indicate these were powerful, long-track storms that pose serious risks to public safety and will require significant recovery efforts in the affected communities.

The details

The deadliest tornado struck Union City, killing three people and injuring 12 others. It has been initially rated as an EF3 with 150 mph winds, though that rating could be increased in the coming days. Another tornado hit Three Rivers, damaging businesses like a Menards store and causing destruction to homes and other structures. That tornado was rated as an EF2 with 130 mph winds. A third tornado in Edwardsburg killed a 12-year-old boy, and a fourth near Tekonsha was rated as an EF0 with 85 mph winds.

• The tornadoes touched down across Southwest Michigan on Friday, March 6, 2026.
• The initial tornado ratings were released on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
• A survey team is expected to assess the tornado damage in Edwardsburg on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to survey the tornado damage over the next several days and may adjust the initial ratings as more information becomes available. Recovery efforts are underway in the affected communities.