On a November evening, Michigan experienced an uncommon weather event with two tornadoes touching down, which is rare for this time of year. Both tornadoes were confirmed by the National Weather Service (NWS), as reported by FOX 2 Detroit, and were classified as EF-0, meaning they had relatively weak wind speeds and caused minimal damage. The first tornado occurred in Gratiot County around 5:50 p.m. on Sunday, causing damage to some trees but no reported injuries. The second tornado impacted the town of Holly, bringing down trees and power lines, and causing roof damage on several streets.
The November tornadoes add to Michigan's weather history, as there have only been six recorded tornadoes in the state during this month since 1950. According to WOODTV, Michigan’s peak tornado season typically spans from May to July, with tornadoes being rare in the fall. The Gratiot County tornado, in particular, was on the ground for approximately 2.4 miles before it dissipated.
The Holly tornado, with its peak winds around 70 mph, started its brief journey in a wooded marshland before ending near Martha and Washington streets, as detailed by FOX 2 Detroit. The damage was largely confined to a few neighborhoods where clean-up of debris, downed wires and damaged trees commenced immediately after the storms passed.
The occurrence of these storms falls within a year that has already defied expectations with regard to tornado activity in Michigan, as noted by WWMT. The Great Lakes State has seen a total of 16 tornadoes in 2024, which already surpasses the usual number, with the majority of these tornadoes occuring in southwest Michigan. This year had an early start with tornadoes in February, contributing to a count that includes three EF-2 tornadoes that tore through the region.
As the year draws to a close, the unpredictability of weather remains, as seen in 2024. December is historically the least likely month for tornadoes in Michigan, with only one recorded instance since 1950. Both residents and meteorologists are monitoring the situation, hoping the trend continues and no additional tornadoes occur as the year ends.
