Midwest Tornado Outbreak: Thousands Without Power, Schools Closed

Midwest Tornado Outbreak Leaves Hundreds of Thousands Without Power A powerful storm system swept through the Midwest on Thursday, May 15, 2025, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. At least 11 tornadoes touched down in four states, causing significant damage and widespread power outages. The hardest-hit area appears to be Michigan, where an intense line of thunderstorms produced damaging straight-line winds. "Trees and power lines snapped, and a semi-truck was overturned," said Ariella Scalese, an AccuWeather meteorologist, describing the scene in Michigan. The storm also caused injuries, with at least one person being transported to the hospital. As of Friday morning, more than 370,000 addresses were without power across Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana. Dozens of schools were forced to cancel classes due to the widespread power outages. The event serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of severe weather and the importance of preparedness.