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The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids has issued a tornado watch, which includes Mason and Oceana counties and surrounding Lake Michigan waters, in effect until 4 a.m. Wednesday.
The watch covers the lakeshore from Pentwater to Manistee — placing Mason County directly within the affected area — along with a broad stretch of adjacent nearshore and offshore waters on Lake Michigan.
The National Weather Service said the watch includes the following adjacent coastal waters:
St. Joseph to South Haven; South Haven to Holland; Holland to Grand Haven; Grand Haven to Whitehall; Whitehall to Pentwater; Pentwater to Manistee; Lake Michigan from Pentwater to Manistee 5 nautical miles offshore to mid-lake; Lake Michigan from Whitehall to Pentwater 5 nautical miles offshore to mid-lake; Lake Michigan from Grand Haven to Whitehall 5 nautical miles offshore to mid-lake; Lake Michigan from Holland to Grand Haven 5 nautical miles offshore to mid-lake; Lake Michigan from South Haven to Holland 5 nautical miles offshore to mid-lake; Lake Michigan from St. Joseph to South Haven 5 nautical miles offshore to mid-lake.
The National Weather Service issues tornado watches when atmospheric conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. Residents are urged to remain alert, especially overnight when storms can be more difficult to track.
In Mason and Oceana counties, residents should monitor weather alerts closely and have multiple ways to receive warnings, including weather radios and mobile alerts.
Boaters on Lake Michigan are also advised to use extreme caution, as rapidly changing conditions could produce strong winds, waterspouts, and dangerous waves.
A tornado watch does not mean a tornado has been spotted, but that conditions are favorable for severe weather. If a tornado warning is issued, residents should seek shelter immediately.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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