Emergency personnel have been deployed throughout the southern portion of Cass County following the touchdown of a tornado near Edwardsburg late Friday afternoon.

Cass County Emergency Manager Manny DeLaRosa confirmed that multiple large structures — including homes and pole barns — sustained damage ranging from major structural impacts to complete destruction.

Cass County Sheriff Clint Roach reported that several injuries have occurred and that one fatality has been confirmed as a result of the storm.

Numerous trees have fallen onto roads and buildings, and more than 500 customers are currently without power, according to reports from Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC).

Preliminary reports indicate that damage began just west of Edwardsburg along Conrad Road and continued east past M-62.

Cass County Board Chair Jeremiah Jones issued a local state of emergency Friday evening, noting that local resources are being utilized to their fullest extent and that additional assistance may be required to clear debris and support affected residents. Heavy rainfall Friday evening delayed some cleanup efforts, which are expected to continue Saturday.

The American Red Cross was on site Friday evening and will return Saturday to provide additional assistance.

Emergency Management personnel will be conducting damage assessments in the affected area as required by the State of Michigan. Residents should expect these personnel to wear yellow vests and identify themselves as Cass County Emergency Management staff.

DeLaRosa and the Cass County Sheriff’s Office continue to monitor conditions and are preparing additional resources, including emergency shelter, should they become necessary.

Residents in need of assistance may contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS or dial 2-1-1 for local support services.