PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – City officials now say they believe two tornadoes touched down in Portage Tuesday evening.
They say there is significant damage, including damage to residential and commercial buildings, trees down across many roads in the city, and several reports of gas leaks.
The hardest hit area is bordered by Centre Avenue, Oakland Drive, Schuring Road, and Westnedge Avenue.
There are no reports of serious injuries, but several individuals have been displaced.
The Salvation Army has established two shelters:
• First Assembly of God at 5550 Oakland Drive – Capacity 100
• Radiant Church at 995 Romence Road – Capacity 100
Consumers Energy has already begun restoration efforts. Just over 20,000
customers are without power in the area.
Consumers Energy estimates that most
customers will not be restored until 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 8.
Portage Mayor Patricia M. Randall has issued an emergency declaration to secure resources from the State of Michigan and the federal government.
City officials are currently being assisted by the Michigan State Police, Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Department, City of Kalamazoo Public Safety, West Michigan 5th District Technical Rescue Team, LifeEMS, and others agencies.
They say residents should continue to shelter in place, check on their neighbors, and stay off the roads to allow access for first responders.
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