- Southeastern Michigan, the areas surrounding Ann Arbor and the general Detroit–Warren–Ann Arbor Combined Statistical Area are a relatively safe area, with low risks of hazards compared to other parts of the US
- The great lakes, distance from the oceans, and a relatively temperate climate preclude Michigan from experiencing most climate disasters, and is one of the safest regions as climate change progresses.
- The region is not free of geohazards, however, and tornadoes make up the core of a threat analysis.
The Tornado
- March 15, 2012 saw one of the most destructive tornadoes of the 21st century in this part of Michigan, significantly damaging the city of Dexter (a suburb of Ann Arbor)
- Rare as wa
s a very slow-moving tornado, with EF2 wind strength but EF3 damage. Only traveled 7.5 miles in 40 minutes. - Destroyed hundreds of homes, causing fires and other destruction
Personal Experience
- I was around 9 years old when the tornado happened, but have dim memories of the experience. There was an emergency alert on the TV, and my family had to stay in the basement for several hours as the tornado progressed across Dexter. Although the tornado moved in the Ann Arbor direction, with real risk of entering the city, that did not come to pass. We have since always kept our basement fairly stocked with food and other supplies in case a similar tornado were to hit Ann Arbor in the future.
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