Tornado Recovery Drags On in Mid-Michigan as Residents Await Help

If you drive through parts of St. Charles today, you'll still see reminders of the tornado that tore through Saginaw County this spring.

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Back in April, an EF-1 tornado ripped through the area, damaging homes, barns, and farmland. Now, months later, many residents are still trying to put the pieces back together.

Insurance Challenges Slow Recovery

Albee Township Supervisor Leon Turnwald says for many families, recovery has largely fallen on their own shoulders. Homeowners and business owners are working through insurance claims, but some are finding their coverage isn't enough because policies hadn't been updated in years according to ABC 12. That has left some residents facing difficult decisions as rebuilding costs continue to climb.

READ MORE: After 13 Tornadoes Statewide, Saginaw County Declares State of Emergency

Local officials are trying to help where they can. Turnwald says property owners who rebuild the same square footage may be able to keep their previous property tax rate under a provision in Michigan law. The township has already assessed the damage and plans to review affected properties again later this year.

FEMA Questions Remain Unanswered for Michigan Tornado Victims

One of the biggest questions remains whether federal disaster assistance will become available. Turnwald says he has not received any indication that FEMA aid is on the way, though local leaders continue monitoring state and federal recovery programs.

READ MORE: How Many Times Has Genesee County Declared a State of Emergency?

There could still be help coming. Governor Gretchen Whitmer is seeking a presidential  disaster declaration for 43 Michigan counties affected by severe storms, flooding, and nine confirmed tornadoes. If approved, federal assistance could provide much-needed relief for families, businesses, and communities still recovering from the damage.

Saginaw County Property Owners Continue Rebuilding After EF-1 Tornado

For now, rebuilding continues one project at a time, with many residents expected to spend much of the summer working to restore what was lost.