Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declares state of emergency in Ann Arbor amid tornado cleanup
ANN ARBOR, Mich. (FOX 2) - A state of emergency has been declared in Ann Arbor after severe weather slammed into the city overnight Tuesday going into Wednesday.
Big picture view:
On Friday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Ann Arbor, which allows the city to seek assistance financially to help cover emergency response costs and repair damages. This comes after Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor requested the declaration.
"On behalf of the City of Ann Arbor, I want to thank Gov. Whitmer for her swift action and support during this challenging time," said Mayor Taylor. "This declaration ensures we have access to critical state resources and coordination that will help us recover more quickly and safely."
Ann Arbor officials accessing storm damage door-to-door
Massive trees have been uprooted, some falling on houses and cars. City crews have been working today to clean up.
The backstory:
In the early morning hours of Wednesday, an EF-1 tornado touched down in the city causing damage, including the destruction of two ice rinks. Meanwhile, trees were downed and power lines were destroyed.
Wall torn off at Veterans Memorial Park Ice Arena in Ann Arbor
In Ann Arbor, Veterans Memorial Park Ice Arena was ripped apart from severe weather. A confirmed tornado did hit Ann Arbor, with several more being reported across the state. Video Credit: City of Ann Arbor
Thousands were left without power.
Emergency responders have been working to restore electricity and clear debris.
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The Source: FOX 2 used information from Governor Gretchen Whitmer and previous reporting in this story.