Response Updates

Portage, Michigan, Tornado Response

USA Reported by Convoy of Hope

Photo above: Storm damaged mobile homes are surrounded by debris at Pavilion Estates mobile home park just east of Kalamazoo, Mich. Wednesday, May 8, 2024. A tornado ripped through the area the evening of May 7. (Neil Blake/The Grand Rapids Press via AP)

May 9, 2024 | 9:29 a.m.

Convoy of Hope is responding to the severe weather in Michigan. A load of essential supplies — tarps, totes, cleaning supplies, hygiene items, and more — will be distributed to people in need as they begin to clean up their homes, neighborhoods, and community. 

Tuesday evening, several tornadoes tore through Michigan. For the first time in the state’s history, the National Weather Service issued a tornado emergency — meaning catastrophic damage was imminent.

In Portage, Michigan, a tornado destroyed a FedEx building while workers sheltered inside. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported from the severe weather. Still, the storms destroyed homes, businesses, and livelihoods.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency in the wake of the damage.

While tornadoes can happen any time of the year, this is peak tornado season for many states. When disaster devastates a community, Convoy is there to help them begin to recover. 

Though severe weather can be unpredictable, you can ensure you’re as prepared as you can be and provide an extra measure of protection for you and your family. Download our free Disaster Preparedness Guide for practical steps to face disaster confidently.

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