Gov. Whitmer declares state of emergency after May 15 tornadoes

Craig Mauger, The Detroit News on Jun 3, 2025

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LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared of a state of emergency for Allegan County, Baraga County and the City of Lansing on Tuesday after a round of tornadoes and severe weather hit the areas on May 15.

The declaration makes state resources available to support the local response and recovery efforts and might also allow access to financial assistance, according to Whitmer's office.

A system of severe storms brought tornadoes, straight-line winds, heavy rains and flash flooding to Michigan on May 15, according to the declaration. Eleven tornadoes were confirmed in the Lower Peninsula, the document added.

“These storms left a mark on Michigan, especially in our capital city and in Allegan and Baraga counties,” Whitmer said in a statement. “After major damage to infrastructure and essential services, we’re stepping in to support local recovery efforts and help these communities get back on their feet."

In the Upper Peninsula, Baraga County faced up to four inches of rain overnight and flash flooding that washed out roads. In Lansing, a confirmed tornado combined with straight-line winds caused "significant damage to the utility infrastructure in a heavily populated area of the capital city," the declaration said.

And in west Michigan's Allegan County, two tornadoes and straight-line winds of up to 95 miles per hour "caused significant damage to thousands of residents," the declaration said.

"State assistance and other outside resources are necessary to effectively respond to and recover from the impacts of this emergency, protect public health, safety and property and lessen or avert the threat of more severe and lasting harm," Whitmer's declaration added.

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