Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) – A strong storm passed through Ottawa County, bringing high winds, heavy rain, and some hail. The Ottawa County outdoor warning sirens were used throughout the storm to alert citizens to 2 different radar indicated tornados that were identified by the National Weather Service. At this point, there is no confirmation that the radar indicated tornados touched down. In addition, the National Weather Service declared a Severe Thunderstorm Warning-Destructive for Ottawa County, which included 80 mph+ wind speeds.
The outdoor warning sirens were used to alert for this Destructive warning as well, as per Ottawa County siren protocol. At that time around 11:00 p.m. Ottawa County Emergency Management says the storm had passed through Ottawa County and damage included trees down, power lines down, blocked roads and small fires are being addressed by local public safety. The Grand Haven Board of Light and Power and Consumers Energy continue to work to restore power.
As always, stay well clear of any downed lines and consider all downed lines to be energized and dangerous. If you do elect to use a generator, position it well away from buildings to prevent potentially deadly carbon monoxide in homes/garages.
The Department of Public Works (DPW) and Grand Haven Public Safety Officers worked through the night using chainsaws to clear the city of debris. It was an all-hands-on-deck night.
They thank Ottawa County Central Dispatch Authority for their excellent work. The weather also delayed all flights arriving at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Several possible tornadoes are under investigation.
If you need to travel, please use caution while navigating the roadways.
The National Weather Service is sending crews out around west Michigan to investigate several possible tornadoes that hit last night. T
Board of Light and Power outage map.
Consumers Energy outage map.
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