Tornado Warning Issued for St. Joseph and Branch Counties in Southwestern Michigan

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Northern Indiana has issued a Tornado Warning for portions of southwestern Michigan. The alert is effective immediately and remains in place until 5:00 PM EST.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Northeastern St. Joseph County in southwestern Michigan
• Northwestern Branch County in southwestern Michigan

Specific locations in the path of the storm include Union City, Sherwood, and Leonidas. The warning also encompasses Interstate 69 in Michigan near mile marker 21.

What You Should Do

TAKE COVER NOW! Residents in the warned area should move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and stay away from windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter immediately to protect yourself from flying debris.

Expected Conditions

At 4:26 PM EST, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Colon, approximately 15 miles northwest of Coldwater. The storm is moving east at 35 mph. Hazards associated with this cell include a tornado and quarter-size hail.

Impacts include dangerous flying debris for those without shelter. Mobile homes may be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles is expected, along with likely tree damage.

Timeline

The Tornado Warning was issued at 4:26 PM EST on March 6 and is scheduled to expire at 5:00 PM EST. The storm was tracked moving through the area at 35 mph, reaching Union City around 4:30 PM EST.