DEARBORN HEIGHTS, Mich. – A severe round of thunderstorms and strong winds uprooted trees and scattered limbs across Dearborn and Dearborn Heights on Friday, prompting crews in both cities to respond to blocked streets and safety hazards.
Dearborn Heights resident Yassir Salih described how a massive tree came down and crashed through the windshield of his parents’ car.
“We opened the window, and we see these two trees, one going here and one going there, and just people are panicked; it was scary. I’ve never seen it in my life,” Salih said.
Also in Dearborn Heights, a large tree was uprooted and fell across Rockdale, blocking the roadway and narrowly missing homes and cars.
“It came down, and it was really quiet. It was a snap, and then, the branches cushioned it,” said resident Jean Poma. “We’re really lucky.”
City officials in both communities urged residents to report hazards as crews work through calls.
The City of Dearborn said its Department of Public Works is assessing and addressing fallen trees and storm-related debris, prioritizing blocked roadways, public safety hazards and locations affecting emergency access.
Residents should call 311 to report fallen trees and concerning conditions, and call 911 for downed power lines or emergencies, the city said.
Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud said the city sustained significant damage, with over 50 trees and large branches reported down across the community.
Crews were called in and are responding, prioritizing urgent hazards, including blocked roadways and immediate safety concerns, he said in a social media post.
In Dearborn Heights, the city said police, fire, and public works crews are responding to reports of downed power lines and streets blocked by fallen trees and limbs.
Residents are asked to report downed power lines, blocked streets or storm damage by calling the non-emergency dispatch lines at (313) 277-7400 or (313) 277-6770, according to a city statement.
City officials are also warning residents to never approach or drive over downed power lines.