Storms leave at least six dead and half a million without power

TheGreat Lakes regionwas hit over the weekend by an intense freezing rain storm that extended into Monday and has left thousands without power. It has also caused significant infrastructure damage, with some schools even having to suspend classes. At least six people were killed by the natural phenomenon, authorities said.

Four people lost their lives in Michigan, two died in Indiana and one person died in Oklahoma, according to reports.

More than 70 million people are under various weather warnings.

The National Weather Service reported that the weather phenomenon mainly hit the states of Michigan, Wisconsin and Indiana, while extreme weather conditions, including tornadoes and large hail (up to an inch in diameter), are expected in Middle Tennessee.

Severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, tornadoes and frequent lightning with heavy rain were also forecast to spread from Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee Valleys and then advance to the coast.

More than 400,000 people without power in the Great Lakes.

More than 400,000 power outages were reported over the weekend in Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin. Churches, schools and fire stations became warming shelters as utilities worked to restore power.

Reconnection efforts continue Monday in small communities and rural areas in the affected area.

The Weather Service office in Gaylord, Michigan, posted on X: "Accumulations here range from a half inch to nearly an inch (1.2 and 2.5 centimeters) of ice!".

Classes suspended in Michigan

Classes were canceled Monday atBeach Elementary Schoolnear Fruitport after heavy storms damaged part of the roof Sunday.

Thesuperintendent of area community schools, Jason Kennedy, said the roof damage caused water damage to the gymnasium.

"The wind dislodged the exterior membrane of our gymnasium roof and created a buildup of water under the membrane, which then began to leak into the gymnasium. The gym floor has significant water damage," he told News 8 Sunday night from inside the school.

The official added that a couple of classrooms were also damaged. There are downed trees around the property, as well as other damage to the school and playground.

More storms in the southwest

The Storm Forecast Center reported via its social media that severe thunderstorm wind gusts are expected across the Southeast today.

It warned that "active and progressive mid-level flow will persist across the U.S. as a large upper trough moves from the Great Lakes into eastern Canada."

They also dropped tornado watches, and other warnings, for central Mississippi and Ohio for tonight.