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CASS COUNTY — The Cass County Board of Commissioners has declared a local “State of Emergency” following the tornado that swept northwest Cass County Tuesday evening.

The declaration, signed by Cass County Board Chair Jeremiah Jones, reads:

 On May 7, 2024, the County of Cass, Michigan sustained severe damage, loss of property caused by a tornado. As a result of this situation, the following conditions exist:

Per the MEC power outage report, approximately 82.94 percent of Wayne Township residents have lost power, this in addition to severe and widespread damage to homes surrounding both lakes. There are several large trees blocking roads and approximately 100 power poles broken with multiple power lines having been compromised, impeding roadways and posing a hazard to public safety. Expected time for power restoration is unknown at this time.

 Multiple fire departments and the road commission are working on tree removal and road clearing. Additionally, there is a definite need for debris management planning to address the significant aftermath of this incident. The complexity of these challenges requires coordinating and a swift response to restore normalcy and ensure the safety and well-being of the community.

Therefore, as the Chief Elected Official of Cass County, in accordance with Section 10 of 1976 PA 390, as amended, I hereby declare that a “state of emergency” exists within our jurisdiction as of May 8, 2024, and that local resources are being utilized to the fullest possible extent. The response and recovery elements of our emergency operations plan have been activated.  

Cass County is working with multiple county partners to facilitate aid as cleanup continues. Please visit casscountymi.org or the Cass County, Michigan Government Facebook page for updates.