Severe Storms Ravage Michigan, Indiana, Resulting in Tornado Confirmations

SYCAMORE, IN — Strong to severe thunderstorms swept through northern Indiana, southern Michigan, and northwest Ohio on March 30, 2025, leading to confirmed tornadoes and widespread damage. The National Weather Service (NWS) conducted damage surveys across affected areas on March 31, with further assessments expected into April.

As storms raged, powerful gusts between 40 and 80 mph resulted in significant destruction. Reports indicated downed trees, power lines, and structural damage to buildings across multiple counties.

In Elkhart County, officials reported substantial damage, with over 30 residential structures affected by falling trees. The storm severely impacted the campus of Ancilla College and overturned a mobile home, injuring one person inside.

The NWS confirmed three tornadoes as of April 1 at 11 AM. The first, an EF-1 tornado with peak winds of 110 mph, traveled 3.32 miles from near Oak Grove in Starke County to north of Donaldson in Marshall County. It resulted in damage to structures and uprooted trees across this path.

A second EF-1 tornado, with a peak wind of 100 mph, struck Edwardsburg, MI, traveling 2.06 miles. It caused damage at Edwardsburg Primary School and nearby Starboard Choice Marina, damaging gutters and lifting docks from the water. Dailey Road experienced intense damage, with large trees effectively uprooted.

The third confirmed tornado, also classified as EF-1, emerged in Noble County, IN, between Ege and LaOtto. It registered peak winds of 90 mph and was on the ground for a brief period, damaging several trees and one barn.

Reports of hail up to 1 inch in diameter and isolated flooding also surfaced due to the fast-moving storms. Wind gusts varied across locations, with instances reaching as high as 78 mph in Benton Harbor and 60 mph in South Bend.

In the wake of the storms, power outages affected thousands, with Indiana Michigan Power reporting a peak of around 60,000 customers without electricity. Restoration efforts continued into April, with many areas expected to regain power by the evening.

Residents are urged to report downed power lines and damages. Emergency management officials are coordinating recovery efforts as communities begin to assess and address storm impacts.