Deadly thunderstorms rip through Michigan, power knocked out to nearly 250,000

At least five people have died in Michigan from severe thunderstorms that tore through the state overnight.

A car crash sparked by flooding claimed the lives of a woman and two young children in Kent County, which encompasses Grand Rapids, an official told ABC Grand Rapids affiliate WZZM.

Another person died on a roadway in the Lansing area when a possible tornado moved through the area, according to the Ingham County Sheriff's Office.

In Lansing, one person was killed when a tree fell on a house, according to police.

Nearly 250,000 customers in Michigan are without power Saturday.

Almost 7 inches of rain fell just south of Detroit, flooding streets and neighborhoods. The Detroit area recorded wind gusts near 70 mph.

Four tornadoes were confirmed in Michigan: one each in Canton, Bellville, Livingston County and Kent County.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is urging residents to "take precautions like avoiding downed power lines and flood waters as areas are cleared."

"We are taking swift action to deliver the assistance needed," she added.

Ohio also saw flash flooding and tornadoes. More than 81,000 Ohioans are without power on Saturday.

Three tornadoes were confirmed in Ohio, all recording winds up to 110 mph.