by GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Two more tornadoes have been confirmed in Barry and Ottawa counties following Thursday’s severe storms.
The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that an EF1 tornado touched down near Heron Pointe in Barry County. With wind speeds estimated around 100 mph, it traveled 6.75 miles. The tornado moved across the southern part of Gun Lake and continued northeast toward the Otis Sanctuary.
The storm knocked down several trees and caused minor roof damage to homes. Docks on Gun Lake also sustained damage.
Meanwhile, a second tornado was confirmed in Zeeland Township in Ottawa County. This EF0 tornado had winds reaching 75 mph and stayed on the ground for about 3.5 miles. Survey teams found damaged buildings and more downed trees along its path.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported from either tornado.
These two bring Michigan’s total number of confirmed tornadoes from Thursday’s storms to 11. For the year, the statewide total now stands at 27 — putting 2024 among the top 10 most active tornado years in Michigan history.
