A 4Warn Weather Alert has been issued for Tuesday evening and overnight as a strong storm system approaches the region.
After record-breaking warmth on Monday, March 9, Southeast Michigan is heading into a day of changing weather, with the potential for severe thunderstorms late Tuesday into early Wednesday.
What is a 4Warn Weather Alert?
We issue a 4Warn Weather Alert when we’re expecting weather conditions that will be inconvenient to our viewers.
Why did we issue an alert for Tuesday night?
Severe thunderstorms may develop late Tuesday night and continue into early Wednesday morning, as a strong low-pressure system tracks across the Great Lakes.
Possible hazards include:
- Damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph
- Large hail
- An isolated tornado
- Heavy rain
The strongest storms are expected to move along or near the I-94 corridor overnight, but any storm that develops could become strong. A slight, or level 2 of 5, risk stretches from near M-59 and southward.
While Metro Detroit remains relatively mild, the Tri-Cities and northern Thumb could see freezing rain late tonight. Up to a tenth of an inch of ice is possible, which could create slick roads by Wednesday morning.
Full forecast --> Severe storms possible in Metro Detroit Tuesday night -- what to know
How to stay safe if severe weather develops
With storms expected overnight, when many people are asleep, it is important to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.
Have different ways to receive alerts:
- Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone and keep it charged
- Use a weather app and/or NOAA Weather Radio
- Keep phone alerts turned on overnight
Know where to take shelter
- Go to a basement if available
- If no basement is available, move to an interior room on the lowest floor
- Stay away from windows
Related --> Deep dive: Do communities still need tornado sirens? What research says
Avoid staying in vehicles and mobile homes during severe weather
- Cars and mobile homes are unsafe during tornadoes.
If a warning is issued
- Seek shelter immediately.
- Protect your head and neck with blankets, pillows, or helmets if available.
Watch vs. Warning --> Tornado watch vs. tornado warning: What the alerts mean and why they matter
What comes after the storms
Rain is expected to continue through Wednesday before colder air arrives.
Temperatures will fall through the day Wednesday, and rain may briefly mix with snow before ending Wednesday night.
Another system later this week could bring snow and strong winds Friday, followed by colder temperatures heading into the weekend.
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