GAYLORD – The Michigan State Police (MSP) said this morning that everyone is accounted for after an EF-3 tornado slammed the city about 3:45 p.m. on Friday, killing two and seriously injuring 44.
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MSP noted that M-32 and I-75 are also now open. Secondary roads will be closed as needed since recovery efforts will be ongoing for several days.
The National Weather Service’s Gaylord office said the tornado was rated as an EF-3 with winds as high as 150 miles per hour, the strongest story recorded since the office was established. The storm’s path was 200 yards wide and ran 16.6 miles.
“A tornado touched down about 6 miles south of Elmira, Michigan in far eastern Antrim County. The tornado strengthened as it crossed Otsego County, becoming EF-3 with maximum winds of 150 mph in and around the City of Gaylord. The tornado continued northeast of Gaylord before lifting about 1 mile northeast of Sparr.
The Red Cross is currently working on a region-wide damage assessment, which should be available sometime this week. Residents can also dial 211 to find out what resources are available in Gaylord. You can find food, necessities, and an agent to help you file an online damage assessment of your property.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency Friday night in Gaylord, which will allow state officials to coordinate rescue and cleanup efforts with local law enforcement and emergency services.
“My heart goes out to the families and small businesses impacted by the tornado and severe weather in Gaylord,” she said on social media. “To the entire Gaylord community — Michigan is with you. We will do what it takes to rebuild.
“Michiganders are tough. We are resilient. We will do what it takes to rebuild. There’s no challenge we can’t get through together.”
Consumers Energy said power has been restored to 99 percent of the region.
Consumers Energy said in a release, “Power should be restored to a majority of those customers by the end of the day Saturday. Severe damage could result in lengthier repairs for some residents that will continue Sunday or into next week.
Iron Pig Smokehouse in Gaylord is offering free pulled pork and burgers out back of the Pig. Restaurant is closed and donations and appreciated.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency the evening of May 20 for the county in the wake of the tornado.
Significant damage has occurred to homes and businesses along West Main Street in Gaylord when the tornado touched down about 3:45 p.m.
Damage occurred to Hobby Lobby, Goodwill, Little Caeser’s, Belle Tire, Maurice’s, Family Farm and Fleet, Aldi, Culver’s Jimmy John’s, Marathon, and multiple homes across the city.
Stephanie Verlinde, team leader at Goodwill, said, “Everyone made it out. Some with minor injuries.”
A shelter was established at E-Free Church in Gaylord located at 1649 E. M-32. The Red Cross will be setting up at that location as well.
Watch UpNorthVoice.com for additional updates as this story is evolving.
