Multiple tornado and thunderstorm warnings prompt residents to seek shelter as storms move in.
Category: U.S. News
West Michigan is bracing for severe weather as a warm front moves into the area, triggering multiple warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS) on the evening of April 2 and 3, 2026. As the storms approach, residents are urged to stay alert and take necessary precautions.
On Thursday evening, FOX 17 issued a Weather Ready Alert due to the potential for strong to severe storms. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning was put in place for parts of Barry, Calhoun, and Eaton Counties, set to expire at 9:15 p.m. EDT on April 3, 2026. This warning followed earlier alerts, including a Tornado Warning for eastern Kalamazoo County and western Calhoun County, which was scheduled to expire at 8:15 p.m. EDT.
Earlier in the evening, another Tornado Warning was issued for parts of Kalamazoo County and Calhoun County, particularly affecting the Battle Creek area, expiring at 8 p.m. EDT. Radar indicated a tornado within a storm system moving northeast, with reports of pea-sized hail accompanying the severe weather.
In addition to the tornado warnings, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning was also active for most of Barry County and a small portion of Allegan County, with forecasts predicting winds up to 60 miles per hour and the possibility of pea-sized hail. This warning expired at 7:30 p.m. EDT.
To add to the concerns, a Tornado Watch was issued for several counties, including Allegan, Barry, Eaton, Van Buren, Kalamazoo, Calhoun, Berrien, Cass, and St. Joseph counties. This watch is expected to remain in effect until 11 p.m. EDT on April 3, 2026. Residents in the path of these storms are advised to seek shelter in their basements or in interior rooms away from windows.
The severe weather alerts come as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of spring storms in the Midwest. In light of these warnings, local officials and meteorologists are emphasizing the importance of preparedness and awareness during this turbulent weather season.
As the situation continues to develop, residents are encouraged to stay tuned to local news and weather updates for the latest information. The NWS and local meteorologists will provide updates as conditions change and more information becomes available.
For those looking for immediate alerts, downloading the FOX 17 Weather app may provide timely notifications about severe weather in their area.