PORTAGE, Mich. – Officials offered an update Wednesday morning on the major tornado damage, power outages, and residents affected in one Michigan city.
The city continues to report that two tornadoes touched down in Portage, Michigan, on Tuesday night. Officials with the National Weather Service have so far confirmed at least one tornado.
At 10:45 p.m. Wednesday, May 8, 2024, city officials provided an update on the “major damage” in Portage.
Residents affected
There are still no reported deaths or serious injuries from the severe weather.
Many people have been displaced from their homes. First Assembly of God at 5500 Oakland Drive is available as a temporary shelter.
Portage residents who need help with sheltering or other assistance can call 211 or the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Damage, traffic issues
Crews from the city are still working to clean up the hardest-hit areas.
There are still many downed power lines and trees blocking roads, including South Westnedge Avenue at Garden Lane and West Centre Avenue between Oakland Drive and Angling Road.
Other smaller roads and neighborhood streets are also blocked.
Traffic signals throughout Portage are out and should be treated as four-way stops.
Power outages
Consumers Energy reports 23,000 customers in Kalamazoo County are without power as of 11 a.m. Wednesday.
There are 133 Consumers Energy crews working to restore power, and their goal is to get everyone’s lights back on by 10 p.m. Wednesday.
Cleanup efforts
City officials are working on cleanup plans as they continue to assess the damage and clear roadways.
For now, residents should put tree branches and brush at their curbs.
Trees and brush cut down by professional tree services can be brought to the city’s Oakland Drive Compost Facility at 10905 Oakland Drive. The facility will be open 24 hours a day until further notice.
The city will continue to provide updates on the disposal of storm debris.
City officials said residents should be careful when working with private parties to help with storm cleanup. Always used licensed and insured contractors, and be wary of door-to-door offers.