Detroit – A tornado touched down on the city’s east side Thursday afternoon, officials confirmed, causing significant damage to homes, businesses and roadways. Mayor Mary Sheffield addressed the public in a press conference, outlining the path of the storm and the city’s immediate response.
Storm path and damage
The National Weather Service verified that the tornado formed near the Mt. Elliott and East Vernor intersection before moving southeast toward Belle Isle. As it traveled, the vortex collided with residential blocks and commercial corridors, flattening structures along a corridor that stretched from the east side into the downtown waterfront area.
Visible destruction was reported in the neighborhoods of Concord and St. Paul, where several homes suffered roof loss and wall collapse. Additional building failures were documented on Lafayette, Jefferson and Concord streets, prompting emergency crews to secure the area and assess safety hazards.
City’s emergency response
Mayor Sheffield emphasized that first‑responders were on the scene within minutes of the tornado’s touchdown. “Our police, fire and public works teams are working around the clock to clear debris, restore power and ensure that residents have safe shelter,” she said. The mayor also announced that a temporary shelter would be opened at the Detroit Public Library for displaced families.
Detroit Police Department has rerouted traffic on affected streets and posted detour signs to keep motorists away from unsafe zones. The Department of Transportation is coordinating with state officials to prioritize road repairs, especially on the heavily trafficked Lafayette and Jefferson corridors.
Public safety guidance
Residents are urged to avoid the damaged areas until crews declare them safe. The mayor reminded citizens to stay tuned to local news outlets and the city’s official social‑media channels for real‑time updates. Those who have suffered property loss are encouraged to contact the Detroit Office of Emergency Management to begin the claims process.
Mayor Sheffield also thanked neighboring jurisdictions, including the Michigan State Police and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, for their swift assistance. “Our community’s resilience shines brightest in moments of crisis,” she added.
Looking ahead
The city will conduct a full damage assessment over the next several days to determine the scope of reconstruction needed. Funding for repairs is expected to come from a combination of state emergency funds, federal disaster assistance and the city’s own reserve budget.
Detroit’s mayor office will hold a follow‑up briefing on Friday evening to provide further details on recovery timelines and to answer questions from the public.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
