(WWJ) Nearly a week after a tornado packing winds of 105 miles per hour hit Armada, Macomb County officials have declared a state of emergency.
Executive Mark Hackel says the declaration will allow the county to seek financial help for Armada and Armada Township for cleanup and other costs.
Assessments show at least 116 buildings were damaged by the storm, and at least two were destroyed.
“The tornado was severe and caused major damage in our communities,” said Hackel. “We are extremely thankful that no deaths or injuries occurred, but the ongoing recovery costs will be significant and so today we are declaring a state of emergency to seek any assistance available for these municipalities.”
The county is also requesting that the Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declare that a state of emergency exists within Macomb County, the Village of Armada and Armada Township and that consideration be given to making state funds available to help with cleanup and repairs.
“This support could offset costs incurred by public entities for public safety, debris management and economic recovery,” said Hackel. “Right now we estimate that both the Village of Armada and Armada Township expect to incur costs in excess of 15% of their annual general fund budget, and this will significantly impact their ability to operate.”
The EF1 tornado in Armada was one of four that hit southeastern Michigan last Saturday night, including one that left damage behind in Oakland County's White Lake.
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