The rarity of morning tornadoes

MARCELLUS, Mich. -- A very rare mid-morning tornado hit southwestern Michigan on Tuesday.

The NWS office of Northern Indiana confirms an EF-2 tornado hit St. Joseph County in Michigan.

The tornado touched down around 8:19 AM and lifted at 8:33 AM.

Estimated peak winds of 115 mph with a path length of 8.46 miles. The tornado had a max width of 700 yards, or approximately 7 football fields. 

This is the first time ever that northern Indiana and southern Michigan had a 7 AM tornado warning.

The first time since March 28, 1998, that a tornado warning was issued during the 8 AM hour.

Lastly, it is the first time since October 26, 2010, that a tornado warning was issued during the 9 AM hour.   

The rarity of the Tuesday morning tornado thankfully came with plenty of warning time from the NWS. No injuries or fatalities were reported, thankfully. 

Just goes to show that tornadoes are possible at any time of day.