Portage Public Schools students return to class after tornado hits SW Michigan

PORTAGE, Mich. (CBS DETROIT) - Portage Public Schools officials announced that students returned to class on Monday, nearly a week after a tornado struck Portage, Michigan.

Superintendent Mark Bieland confirmed the reopening of the schools, which have been closed since Wednesday, May 8.

The National Weather Service said an EF-2 tornado hit the city on Tuesday, May 7 . Weather officials say the tornado reached an estimated peak wind of 135 mph and touched down near the intersection of S. 10th Street and W. R Avenue. It traveled for about 11 miles, damaging home roofs and sidings.

The tornado also damaged a FedEx facility .

In response to the storm, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, Branch and Cass counties. The declaration allows for all state resources to be available with local response and recovery efforts in the areas.