Deadly Tornadoes Sweep Through Southern Michigan, Leaving Trail of Destruction
At least four people were killed and dozens more injured Friday as a series of tornadoes tore through southern Michigan, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The most significant impact was felt in Branch County, particularly in the village of Union City, where a confirmed tornado ripped through neighborhoods, leaving a path of devastation. Emergency responders are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage and provide assistance to those affected by the severe weather event.
The outbreak of tornadoes prompted a swift response from state and local authorities, with Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer activating the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate relief efforts. The activation, announced Friday evening, aims to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated response to local requests for assistance, providing resources and support to communities grappling with the aftermath of the storms. The governor also expressed gratitude to the first responders who quickly mobilized to ensure public safety.
Union City Devastated by Tornado
Union City, a village in Branch County with a population of 1,714 as of the 2020 census, bore the brunt of the storm’s fury. Dramatic footage circulating online, captured by residents and emergency personnel, showed a visible funnel cloud shredding through the village, uprooting trees, and sending debris flying through the air. Village officials have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel as crews work to clear debris and assess the structural integrity of buildings. According to authorities, three people were killed and twelve others injured in Union City. The village, largely within Union Township, also has a small portion extending into Burlington Township in Calhoun County. Union City was platted in 1835 and incorporated in 1866.
Edwardsburg and Three Rivers Also Impacted
Approximately 60 miles southwest of Union City, near Edwardsburg in Cass County, one person was confirmed dead and several others injured due to a reported tornado. Cass County Sheriff’s officials reported that the damage began west of Edwardsburg along Conrad Road and continued east past M-62. Multiple buildings, including homes and pole barns, sustained damage or were completely destroyed, and numerous trees fell, blocking roadways. Hundreds of residents in the immediate area experienced power outages.
Further south, in St. Joseph County, near the city of Three Rivers, a funnel cloud was observed, prompting police to advise residents to stay away from the north end of the county “until further notice.” Footage taken roughly 30 miles away along a busy retail corridor in Three Rivers showed debris being flung into the air. As of Friday evening, Indiana Michigan Power reported that at least 5,200 customers in the Three Rivers area were without power.
Governor Whitmer Mobilizes State Resources
Governor Whitmer’s activation of the State Emergency Operations Center underscores the seriousness of the situation and the state’s commitment to providing support to affected communities. “I seek to thank all the first responders on the ground who reacted quickly to keep Michiganders safe,” Whitmer stated on X (formerly Twitter). The State Emergency Operations Center will coordinate the state’s response, including deploying resources, providing logistical support, and assisting with damage assessment. The center will also work with local officials to identify and address unmet needs.
I’ve activated the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate an all-hands-on-deck response to the tornadoes that hit southern Michigan today. We’re monitoring the situation closely and will ensure the state can monitor and respond to local requests. https://t.co/EXAMPLE
— Gretchen Whitmer (@gretchenwhitmer) March 7, 2026
Union City Details and History
Union City, situated at 42°04′02″N 85°08′16″W, is a village with a total area of 1.49 square miles (3.86 km2), according to the United States Census Bureau. The village’s history dates back to 1831 when Isaiah Bennett purchased the first plot of land from the government. In 1835, E. W. Morgan platted the community, naming it Union City, reportedly due to the confluence of the Coldwater River and St. Joseph River in the area. The current Village President is James Hurley, and Chris Mathis serves as the Village Clerk. The village’s elevation is 906 feet (276 m).
Ongoing Response and Recovery Efforts
As of Saturday, March 7, 2026, emergency crews continue to work diligently to assess the damage, provide medical assistance, and restore essential services to affected areas. The full extent of the damage is still being determined, and authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines. The American Red Cross has established shelters for displaced residents and is providing food, water, and other essential supplies. Indiana Michigan Power is working to restore power to the thousands of customers who remain without electricity.
The National Weather Service is continuing to monitor the region for potential further severe weather. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather updates and heed any warnings issued by local authorities. The State Emergency Operations Center will remain activated as long as necessary to support the ongoing response and recovery efforts.
The next official update from the Michigan State Emergency Operations Center is scheduled for 9:00 AM EST on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Residents seeking assistance or information can contact the Branch County Emergency Management Agency at 517-741-8591 or visit the official Village of Union City website at https://www.visitunioncity.com/.
We encourage readers to share their experiences and offer support to those affected by the tornadoes in the comments below. Please also share this article to help spread awareness and ensure that those in require receive the assistance they require.