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How To Prepare For Michigan Tornadoes: Essential Safety Tips
- Jennifer Wilson
- May 16
- 5 min read
🌪️ The Reality of Michigan Tornadoes
Michigan experiences an average of 15 to 20 tornadoes annually, mostly during the spring and summer months. While Michigan tornadoes aren't as frequent as in some other states, they can be equally devastating and dangerous. Yesterday's severe weather events (May 2025)- serve as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared for these sudden, often devastating events.
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📜 A Brief History of Notable Michigan Tornadoes
The Flint-Beecher Tornado (June 8, 1953)
From a very young age I was taught the seriousness of a tornado from my Grandma Huneycutt- a survivor of the the Flint-Beecher tornado. The Flint, Michigan tornado which struck on June 8, 1953 remains the deadliest tornado in Michigan’s history. This horrible event claimed 116 lives and injured over 800 in the Beecher district of Flint, Michigan. It was part of a larger outbreak that swept across several states leaving a trail of destruction. Because my grandmother lived through that tragedy, I was taught at an early age how to prepare for dangerous storms. To this day I can picture her anxiously watching the skies, and preparing for the worst as she waited for storms to pass. We didn't have a basement so when a tornado watch was in affect she would tuck me in a hallway closet with pillows, blankets and flashlights- a cozy little fort that felt like a fun adventure as a child who didn't fully understand the dangers outside. Then she would fill jugs and the bathtub with water, gather batteries, candles and flashlights, and prep our kerosene lamps in case we lost power.
Palm Sunday Outbreak (April 11, 1965)
Another devastating day for Michigan was on April 11, 1965- when we were struck by multiple tornadoes, resulting in 53 fatalities across the state. Branch County was particularly hard-hit, with 18 total deaths. This Michigan tornado disaster led to significant changes in our warning systems. The term "tornado forecast" was changed to "tornado watch" which was more easily understood by the public. Another significant change- civil defense sirens were repurposed as outdoor warning systems which was important because many people are outside during the beautiful Michigan spring/summer season.
Recent Events: May 15, 2025
Our beautiful great lake state had severe storms sweep through last night, (May 15, 2025) causing widespread damage and power outages. Approximately 240,000 Michigan residents lost power, (Celestial Farms wedding venue in Clio, Michigan was spared) with Van Buren County being among the hardest hit. The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-0 tornado near Battle Creek and an EF-1 from Charlotte to Lansing. Current reports are stating 19+ tornadoes touched down across Michigan last night and they are still investigating some areas. These storms served as a stark reminder of the lessons my Grandma Huneycutt instilled in me so many years ago.
🧠 Understanding Tornado Alerts: Watch vs. Warning
• Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form in the area. Stay alert and be prepared to take action quickly.
• Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or detected by radar indicating imminent danger. Seek shelter immediately without hesitation! 
It’s crucial to have multiple ways to receive these life saving alerts such as smartphone apps, radios and local news broadcasts to assure you receive life saving information immediately.
🛠️ Preparing for a Tornado
1. Create an Emergency Plan
• Identify Safe Locations: Determine the safest place to seek shelter in and around your home, a basement is ideal or an interior room without windows. 
• Establish Communication: Ensure all family members know how to contact each other during emergencies and discuss a meeting place if you are separated.
2. Assemble an Emergency Kit
Essential items include: 
• Non-perishable food and water for at least three days for the people in your home
• Battery-powered radios
• Flashlights and extra batteries of different kinds
• First aid kit is a must
• Medications for at least a few days should be stored in a backpack and personal hygiene items will be helpful too
• Important documents in a waterproof container such as ID's, passports, health insurance cards, title to your home, will, etc.
3. Secure Your Property
• Trim trees and remove dead branches near your home to minimize potentially dangerous debris.
• Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles such as patio furniture, trampolines, etc.
• Reinforce doors and windows if possible
🌀 During a Tornado
• Seek Shelter Immediately: Go to your designated agreed upon safe location. 
• Protect Yourself: Use heavy blankets or mattresses to shield against falling debris.
• Avoid Windows: Flying glass can cause serious and even fatal injuries 
• Stay Informed: Keep a fully charged cell phone- (extra charging banks are a great idea)- and a battery-powered radio with you to receive updates.
🧹 After the Tornado
• Wait for Official All-Clear: Ensure all danger has passed before leaving your designated safe location.
• Check for Injuries: Check on your loved ones and your neighbors if possible and provide first aid and/or seek medical attention if necessary. 
• Avoid Hazards: Watch out for deadly downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage.
• Document Damage: Once you're safe, be sure to take photos of all damages for insurance purposes.
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📚 Resources for Further Information
Michigan tornadoes, while less frequent than other states, still pose a significant threat as we experienced last night. By understanding the risks, properly preparing, and staying informed during severe weather, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
As a wedding venue, our typical blog posts are about all things wedding, but last night’s storms felt like a powerful reminder to pause and talk about something just as important—preparedness. As tornado warnings swept through our beautiful state, I was reminded how quickly weather can turn severe. It felt like the right time to share a few thoughts (and some tips) on staying safe when severe storms roll in.
Celestial Farms is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
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