Key Highlights
- Four tornadoes hit West Michigan on March 6, 2026.
- The most destructive was the Union City EF3 tornado with max winds of 160 mph.
- Cass County had an EF1 tornado that caused one fatality and significant damage.
- A preliminary EF2 tornado struck Three Rivers, causing extensive commercial building damage.
- Clarendon Township in Calhoun County saw a weak EF0 tornado but still suffered minor structural damage.
The Unforeseen Storms of March 6, 2026
March 6, 2026, was supposed to be another typical day in West Michigan. Instead, it became a tragic reminder of nature’s raw power.
Four tornadoes touched down across parts of Cass, St. Joseph, Branch, and Calhoun counties. This was unusual for early March, making the event even more significant.
The EF1 Tornado in Cass County
The Edwardsburg/Cassopolis EF1 tornado, with max winds of 95 mph, wreaked havoc on Union Lake. According to local reports, it destroyed a garage and damaged homes, leading to one fatality—a 12-year-old boy.
As the storm moved northeast, it toppled trees and caused minor roof damage. By the time it lifted, it had traveled over 13 miles, snatching up numerous trees in its path.
The EF2 Tornado in Three Rivers
About 10 minutes after the first tornado touched down, a second EF2 tornado struck Three Rivers with max winds of 130 mph. The Menards store took a direct hit, losing part of its roof and facade.
As it moved through commercial buildings near West Broadway Street, it caused significant damage, prompting school districts to announce closures as the community began recovery efforts.
The EF3 Tornado in Union City
The Union City EF3 tornado, with max winds of 160 mph and a path length of 3.7 miles, was the most destructive. It touched down near Prairie Rose Lane and Tuttle Road, destroying homes and scattering debris.
Reports indicate that it caused three fatalities and twelve injuries before lifting near the Calhoun-Branch county line. This EF3 tornado is the first since an EF3 hit Gaylord in 2022.
The Weak EF0 Tornado in Clarendon Township
About 15 minutes after the Union City tornado, a weak EF0 tornado touched down between Tekonsha and Homer. While causing minor structural damage to outbuildings and uprooting trees, it was still significant enough to be surveyed.
March 6, 2026, will remain etched in the memory of West Michigan residents as one of the most destructive days on record for tornadoes. The recovery efforts are ongoing, highlighting the resilience of communities facing such natural disasters.