A relentless severe weather pattern has unleashed a devastating tornado outbreak across the Midwestern United States, with more than 20 confirmed tornadoes tearing through communities in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and Michigan between April 13 and 17, 2026. Over 50 million people were under severe weather threats as the storm system carved a path of destruction across a 1,000-mile stretch of the central U.S.
EF-3 Tornado Levels Homes in Wisconsin
The most powerful tornado of the outbreak — an EF-3 with estimated winds above 165 mph — struck Buffalo County, Wisconsin, where aerial imagery reveals homes completely leveled. In the town of Ringle in Marathon County, approximately 75 homes sustained damage and search-and-rescue teams helped residents trapped in basements of demolished structures. Across southern Wisconsin, additional tornadoes combined with flooding and large hail to create hazardous conditions.
Widespread Damage Across Multiple States
In Lena, Illinois, a high-end EF-2, possible multi-vortex tornado with 130 mph winds carved through the town, severely damaging the local high school and elementary school. Belton, Missouri reported widespread structural damage with minor injuries after a tornado passed through the city. In Michigan, eight tornadoes were confirmed between April 14 and 15, including two EF-1 twisters that struck Southeast Michigan communities in the Downriver area, toppling trees and damaging homes and businesses.
Michigan Governor Whitmer declared a state of emergency for 33 counties and later expanded it to include the cities of Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo and five additional counties.
Relief Organizations Respond
The American Red Cross has opened shelters across affected states and is deploying emergency response vehicles to provide meals, relief supplies, and comfort to displaced families.
FEMA is conducting damage assessments across the affected region and coordinating federal resources to support state and local emergency management agencies.
Team Rubicon has deployed veteran-led disaster response teams to assist with debris removal and damage assessment in tornado-damaged communities across Wisconsin and Illinois.
The Salvation Army is operating mobile feeding units and distributing emergency supplies including food, water, and hygiene kits to affected families.
Samaritan's Purse is deploying disaster relief units with chainsaws, heavy equipment, and tarps to help homeowners begin the cleanup and recovery process.
How You Can Help
Multiple communities across the Midwest need immediate support as they begin the long recovery process. Visit our April 2026 Midwest Tornado Outbreak disaster page to find all responding organizations and learn how to donate or volunteer.
