Severe Thunderstorms Cause Damage Across Michigan, Including Flipped Planes and Power Outages
A powerful line of severe thunderstorms swept across Michigan on Monday, May 18, 2026, causing significant damage in various parts of the state. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), wind gusts exceeded 70 mph in some areas, leading to widespread destruction. At the Capital Region International Airport near Lansing, three small planes were damaged, including two that were flipped onto their sides and one that overturned while being towed. The Lakewood Early Childhood Center in Woodland, Barry County, sustained roof and structural damage, though no injuries were reported as children were not in the affected area. The NWS office near Grand Rapids also experienced roof shingle damage during a peak wind gust of 75 mph. Additionally, hail was reported in northern Michigan, and outdoor warning sirens were activated in several counties. As of 6 p.m. local time, over 95,000 homes and businesses were without power across the state.