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Union City Today
By the People, for the People
Three Rivers Schools Closed After Tornado Damage
Superintendent cites significant storm damage, including to administration building and transportation garage
Published on Mar. 8, 2026
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Due to extensive damage from several deadly tornadoes that struck Southwestern Michigan on Friday, Three Rivers Community Schools will be closed on Monday. The district's superintendent cited significant damage to the administration building, maintenance and storage areas, and the transportation garage, where several school buses were also damaged. While no instructional buildings were impacted, the superintendent praised the quick actions of staff to ensure student safety during the storms.
Why it matters
The tornado outbreak in Southwestern Michigan caused widespread destruction, including loss of life, and has significantly disrupted operations for the Three Rivers school district. The closure highlights the community's ongoing recovery efforts and the strain on local infrastructure and services in the wake of the severe weather.
The details
At least four tornadoes touched down in the region on Friday afternoon, with the storms hitting during the afternoon school dismissal. District staff quickly moved students to the nearest school buildings for shelter. While no instructional buildings were damaged, the district's new transportation building lost its garage roof and several buses were damaged.
- On Friday, March 6, 2026, several deadly tornadoes struck Southwestern Michigan between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
- Three Rivers Community Schools will be closed on Monday, March 10, 2026 due to the storm damage.
The players
Nikki Nash
Superintendent of Three Rivers Community Schools.
The National Weather Service
Confirmed at least four tornadoes touched down in the region on Friday.
What they’re saying
“In the wake of the storm, it is clear that our community has suffered significant damage. However, amid this devastation, it is heartwarming to witness neighbors helping neighbors, and community groups jumping into action to clear debris and support those in need has been truly inspiring.”
— Nikki Nash, Superintendent (arcwestmichigan.com)
“While we recognize these emergency protocols caused significant delays and inconveniences for many of you, the safety of our students and staff is our absolute top priority. I want to thank our students for their bravery, our staff for their quick thinking, and you - our families, for your patience and cooperation as we worked to ensure every child was out of harm's way.”
— Nikki Nash, Superintendent (arcwestmichigan.com)
What’s next
The district has not provided a timeline for when schools will reopen, as the cleanup and recovery process is expected to take days or even weeks.
The takeaway
The tornado outbreak in Southwestern Michigan has had a devastating impact on the Three Rivers community, forcing the local school district to close as it assesses damage and supports ongoing recovery efforts. This highlights the resilience and community spirit needed to overcome such natural disasters.
