Thunderstorm Wind — Ottawa, Michigan

2025-05-15 · near Lake Macatawa, Ottawa, Michigan

87 EG

Magnitude

Event narrative

NWS Storm Survey confirmed straight line winds estimated to be in excess of 90 mph at tree top level in the Waukazoo Woods area of Ottawa county. Dozens of old growth trees estimated to be 150-200 feet tall or higher were knocked over by thunderstorm winds. Dozens of homes were severely damaged when trees fell on them.

Wider weather episode

A severe weather outbreak occurred on May 15-16 across lower Michigan that brought 8 tornadoes to the Grand Rapids forecast area and saw straight line winds in excess of 100 mph impact counties along the Lake Michigan shore on May 15. Large hail also occurred with storms on May 16. Tens of thousands were without power, some for several days due to the widespread nature of this severe weather event.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (42.7900, -86.1600)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1265960. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.