Memories of the Devastating Kalamazoo Tornado of 1980

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — On May 13, 1980, a powerful F3 tornado struck downtown Kalamazoo, leaving destruction in its wake. The tornado traveled 11 miles from the west side of the city before lifting near Comstock. It reached estimated wind speeds of 158 to 206 mph, killing five people and injuring 79 others.

A tornado watch was issued for West Michigan at 1:30 p.m. that day, with a tornado warning following at 4 p.m. The tornado touched down at 4:09 p.m., hitting the Greenacres subdivision almost immediately and causing severe damage to homes.

As it moved through neighborhoods such as Westwood and West Main Hill, the tornado claimed its first victim at a laundromat. Three others were killed as it rampaged through downtown. Notable locations like Bronson Park, Kalamazoo Mall, and Gilmore Brothers Department Store endured significant damage during the storm.

In a tragic moment, the tornado shifted slightly southeast, blowing a man off a fuel truck and leading to his death. The tornado finally dissipated near Comstock at 4:25 p.m.

The memory of this devastating event remains vivid for many long-time residents of Kalamazoo. It was a calamity that changed the city forever, yet it also highlighted the resilience of the community as people came together to rebuild their lives and neighborhoods.