What type of natural disaster commonly affects Michigan's lower regions?

Tornadoes are a significant natural disaster type that commonly affects Michigan, particularly in its lower regions. The state is situated in a region known for tornado activity, often dubbed "Tornado Alley" in the context of the Midwest. Tornadoes typically occur during the warmer months, primarily in late spring and early summer when conditions for severe thunderstorms are optimal.

Factors contributing to the prevalence of tornadoes in Michigan include the clash of warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico with cooler, drier air from Canada, creating instability in the atmosphere conducive to tornado development. Michigan has recorded numerous tornadoes, some of which have caused considerable destruction and prompted severe weather warnings.

While hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes can also impact Michigan, their frequency and intensity are significantly lower. Hurricanes primarily affect coastal areas, making them less of a concern for a landlocked state like Michigan. Flooding can occur, especially in conjunction with heavy rain or snowmelt, but it is not as directly linked to severe storm systems as tornadoes are. Earthquakes are rare in Michigan, and while they can occur, they are not a common natural disaster compared to tornadoes, which are a more frequent and recognized risk in the state.