Mid-Michigan Morning News: Earthquake Rescue Efforts Continue, Road Construction Expands, and Loons & Tigers Win

Here are today's top headlines:

Rescue Efforts Continue After Powerful Earthquake

Search and rescue teams in Colombia continue working around the clock after a devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck dozens of cities. Thousands of people remain unaccounted for as heavy equipment clears collapsed buildings while volunteers pass debris hand-to-hand in hopes of finding survivors.

Michigan Lawmaker Wants to Repeal Marijuana Tax

State Representative James DeSana has introduced legislation to eliminate Michigan's 24% wholesale marijuana tax, which was included in the state's 2025 road funding plan. DeSana says the tax has generated far less revenue than originally projected and believes removing it would lower costs for consumers while helping licensed cannabis businesses compete with the illegal market.

More Than 1,000 Illegal Guns Removed

Michigan officials announced that Operation Safe Neighborhood has now helped remove more than 1,000 illegal guns from communities across the state since 2021. The statewide initiative targets high-risk felony probationers and parolees through compliance checks. Governor Gretchen Whitmer credited the success to cooperation between state and local law enforcement agencies.

Tittabawassee Road Construction Moves Into Phase 3

Drivers in Saginaw County should prepare for another traffic shift beginning Monday as Phase 3 of the Tittabawassee Road reconstruction project gets underway. The new construction zone will stretch from Town Center Road North to North Michigan Avenue after crews complete pavement markings on the previous section. Officials expect this phase to last at least two months.

Sports

The Great Lakes Loons opened their series against the South Bend Cubs with a 6-3 victory Tuesday night.

The Detroit Tigers also picked up a win, defeating the Cleveland Guardians 6-4 as they continue their push through the American League playoff race.

Mid-Michigan Weather

Expect patchy morning fog followed by partly sunny skies today with a 30% chance of scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms. High temperatures will reach around 86 degrees.

Tonight will be partly cloudy with a slight chance of an evening shower or thunderstorm and a low near 64.

Thursday looks partly sunny with a high around 85, while Friday brings sunshine, lower humidity, and breezy conditions with highs near 83.