A Dam Crisis, Tornado Threats, and More Storms Are Unfolding Now

The multi-day severe weather outbreak that forecasters warned about has proven every bit as destructive as feared, and it is far from over. Tuesday's storms swept across the Midwest with devastating results, and as of midday Wednesday, the region is simultaneously cleaning up from the overnight carnage, battling a worsening flooding emergency, and bracing for a new round of severe storms already developing to the south and west.

Tuesday's Outbreak Delivers Tornadoes, Destructive Winds, and Record Flooding

Tuesday's storms produced destructive 88 mph wind gusts and giant hail across the Midwest, with the squall line pushing into Michigan overnight and leaving a trail of damage. The weather service recorded 69 mph winds at Detroit Metro Airport and 63 mph winds at Willow Run Airport at approximately 2 a.m. Wednesday. Two tornadoes were confirmed in West Michigan, one touching down in Otsego near Kalamazoo, and another in Carson City in Montcalm County.

The damage in southeast Michigan has been significant. Winds ripped the facade off at least one building near Dix Highway and Outer Drive in Lincoln Park, and part of the metal roof of the University of Michigan's Yost Arena was also damaged. The east wall of Veterans Memorial Park Ice Arena in Ann Arbor collapsed, with firefighters responding to more than 75 calls citywide, though no injuries were reported. Ann Arbor Public Schools canceled classes Wednesday, with officials noting some schools sustained structural damage, and many are without power. Safe passage for walkers and buses is compromised across much of the city due to downed power lines, flooding, water main breaks, gas leaks, and fallen trees.