Storms pummel parts of US with rain, flood threats

Key Points:

• A severe storm system spanning from central Texas to the Great Lakes has caused heavy rain, flooding, hail, tornadoes, and lightning across multiple Midwest states, resulting in at least one death from a lightning strike in Wisconsin.
• Wisconsin has confirmed five tornadoes so far, with more possible after damage surveys; the Wisconsin River is nearing record flood levels in Portage, prompting emergency declarations and road closures.
• Michigan faces significant flooding challenges, including overwhelmed wastewater systems in Bellaire and evacuation orders near the Muskegon River and Croton Dam, with state officials declaring emergencies in numerous counties.
• Meteorologists warn that severe weather, including heavy rain, tornadoes, and lightning, is expected to continue through Friday before the storm system moves off the U.S. east coast over several days.
• Authorities urge residents in affected areas to prepare for ongoing severe weather and flooding risks, emphasizing caution on roads and readiness for potential evacuations.