Macomb County Declares A State Of Emergency In Response To The Tornado In Armada Township And The Village Of Armada

Officials asking Governor Whitmer to make funds available to offset public costs

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel today declared a state of emergency in response to damage caused by an EF1 tornado in Armada Township and the Village of Armada on Saturday, July 24, 2021.

“The tornado was severe and caused major damage in our communities,” said Hackel. “We are extremely thankful that no deaths or injuries occurred, but the ongoing recovery costs will be significant and so today we are declaring a state of emergency to seek any assistance available for these municipalities.”

Damage assessments indicate that 116 structures were impacted by the storm and at least two were destroyed. A state of emergency will activate the response and recovery elements of Macomb County’s emergency operations plan, and it is a necessary step in seeking cost reimbursement through the emergency management process

The county is also requesting that the governor declare a state of emergency exists within Macomb County, the Village of Armada and Armada Township and that consideration be given to making funds available for the State Disaster and Emergency Contingency fund or any other source of funds.

“This support could offset costs incurred by public entities for public safety, debris management and economic recovery,” said Hackel. “Right now we estimate that both the Village of Armada and Armada Township expect to incur costs in excess of 15 percent of their annual general fund budget, and this will significantly impact their ability to operate.”

Section 10 of Public Act 390 of 1976 gives the county executive the authority to declare that a state of emergency exists. Brandon Lewis, director of Macomb County Emergency Management and Communications, will serve as the liaison and will coordinate with state and federal authorities for assistance related to this incident.