CASS COUNTY, Mich. -- On Wednesday, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced she's requested President Donald J. Trump to declare a major disaster in response to the multiple tornado touchdowns that occurred in early March in Southwest Michigan, including parts of Cass, St. Joseph, and Branch Counties.

According to Whitmer's office, this series of tornadoes marks the deadliest tornado event in the state in almost 50 years with four people having died in this event.

“These tornadoes brought heartbreaking loss and widespread destruction to Southwest Michigan,” said Whitmer. “Michigan families have lost loved ones, homes and businesses. I declared a state of emergency, but our work is just beginning. As we wrap our arms around the affected communities, we are requesting federal assistance to ensure those affected have the resources they need to recover. Let’s keep working together to keep people safe and help Michiganders rebuild.”

Communities near Edwardsburg, in and around Three Rivers, and along the north side of Union Lake in Union City, were among the hardest hit.

Whitmer has requested activation of all areas of the Individual Assistance program for Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph Counties.

“From the moment the storm hit, local and state partners worked side by side to protect lives and begin response and recovery operations,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police and state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. “While significant progress has been made, the scope of damage requires federal support to ensure families can rebuild.”

A joint Preliminary Damage Assessment with local, state, and federal officials occurred on March 17 to assess and validate the most severely affected areas.

Officials say the findings determined the damage met the threshold to request federal assistance.

If granted, IA may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and businesses recover.

Whitmer’s request will be reviewed by FEMA, which will advise Trump on whether a disaster declaration is warranted.

The final decision rests with the president.