GAYLORD (WWJ) - The National Weather Service has given an EF-3 rating to the damaging tornado that ripped Gaylord, Mich. on Friday afternoon with peak winds estimated at 140 mph.
The preliminary report from NWS was conducted by a survey team and released on Saturday -- more information, such as the width and trach of the storm, will be made available once the team finishes their assessment.
The Enhanced Fujita scale used by weather experts to rate tornados is assigned after surveyors asses damage in the aftermath of storms to better estimate windspeed.
The last tornado to hit Michigan with a rating of EF-3 touched down in Dexter in 2012.
Meteorologists said multiple thunderstorms raced across across the northern parts of Michigan on Friday and produced the supercell thunderstorm that spawned off a destructive tornado in Gaylord.
"We have multiple road closures, lines down, trees, devastating destruction," Michigan Sate Police Lt. Derrick Carroll said to WWJ's Erin Vee Friday evening. "The mobile home park saw extensive damage, several business along the main business route were destroyed with roofs torn off and vehicles in the parking lot were flipped upside down."
The NWS said the storm peaked with winds at speeds of 140 mph. The same system also produced very large hail in other parts of the area.
According to state police, two people were killed and over 40 are injured in the storm.
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Gov. Gretchen Whitmer arrived in Gaylord around 10 p.m. Friday evening and immediately declared a State of Emergency for the city to help officials rush resourced to the affected areas.
"Michiganders are tough. We are resilient. We will do what it takes to rebuild. There’s no challenge we can’t get through together," the governor said.
Whitmer urged people to stay away from the area as authorities work to keep everyone safe.
"As Michigan State Police have noted, trees and power lines are down, and multiple homes and businesses have been damaged," the governor said. "The MSP urge Michiganders to avoid the Gaylord area. Emergency crews are responding to help residents and assess the damage. Severe thunderstorm watches and warnings remain in effect throughout Northern Michigan. Our thoughts are with the impacted communities and first responders and utility workers who are working hard to keep everyone safe. For up-to-date information and alerts, follow @mspnorthernmi.”
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WWJ LIVE for the latest updates.
