Evening storms that moved across the middle section of Michigan's Lower Peninsula produced a very vivid lightning display. The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids estimated more than 13,600 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes and more than 40,000 within-cloud flashes.

The National Weather Service in Detroit/ Pontiac has confirmed that a tornado touched down near New Lothrop Thursday evening at approximately 9:23 p.m. The damage is consistent with that of a tornado and is being evaluated as either an EF-0 or an EF-1. The tornado damaged or destroyed two garages, two barns and left multiple trees damaged or destroyed.

The Shiawassee County Emergency Management and the National Weather Service office in White Lake will be working together to determine the final strength.

Rotating storms were occurring along that same line of storms earlier in the evening causing flooding, hail and high winds in parts of western and central Michigan as well.

Tornado Warning Safety:

  • If you can safely get to a sturdy building, then do so immediately.
  • Go to a safe room, basement, or storm cellar.
  • If you are in a building with no basement, then get to a small interior room on the lowest level.
  • Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
  • Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You’re safer in a low, flat location.
  • Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.
  • Use your arms to protect your head and neck.

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