Michigan’s weather has two big headlines today: Steamy high temperatures that will feel so hot it becomes dangerous, and a cold front sweeping in later today that could set off storms – some possibly severe.
It’s going to feel tropical today, and not in a good way.
While the risk for hail and tornadoes is low, if we do have severe weather later today, some places can expect to see really heavy downpours that could lead to flash flooding, as well as damaging winds to 60 mph.
Some areas could see up to 2 inches of rain fall pretty quickly, the National Weather Service said.
The timeline for this severe weather threat is from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
“Some storms may reach severe levels with damaging winds being the main threat. Torrential rain is also possible which could bring on short duration flooding due to a tropical airmass,” NWS meteorologists in the Grand Rapids office said today.
Here are the NWS statewide forecast highlights for today:
A scorching heat wave will grip Michigan on Thursday, with dangerous heat indices and potential severe thunderstorms across the state.
A Heat Advisory is in effect for multiple regions, with afternoon temperatures expected to reach the low to mid 90s and heat indices potentially climbing to 100-105 degrees. The National Weather Service warns of oppressive humidity, with dew points surging into the low to mid 70s, creating potentially dangerous heat conditions.
Thunderstorms are likely to develop Thursday afternoon and evening, primarily in northeastern Lower Michigan and West Michigan. The main severe weather threats include damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, heavy rainfall, and potential localized flooding. The storms are expected to move from west to east, with the highest risk between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.
The heat and storm pattern will continue into Friday, with temperatures remaining warm and humid. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible, particularly in southern Michigan. By Saturday, another round of storms is anticipated, with rainfall totals potentially reaching half an inch to one inch in some areas.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Michigan residents should expect continued warm and humid conditions with ongoing chances for thunderstorms. Temperatures are forecast to remain in the low to mid 80s, with continued high humidity levels.
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