A Flood Watch is in effect for most of Southeast Michigan through Wednesday afternoon as rounds of rain and storms move across the region during the morning commute and through midday.
A 4Warn Weather Alert has also been issued for Wednesday, March 11.
--> 4Warn Weather Alert issued for Wednesday morning in Metro Detroit -- What this means
The Flood Watch remains in effect through 2 p.m. on March 11.
Wednesday forecast
The same weather system responsible for Tuesday’s record-breaking heat is now bringing a much different set of impacts.
Metro Detroit reached 75 degrees Tuesday, breaking the previous record high of 70 degrees set in 1925. The average high for this time of year is 43 degrees. Temperatures in the mid-70s are more typical of late May or early June.
The dramatic warmth helped fuel a strong storm system that is now moving through Michigan.
Early Wednesday morning, thunderstorms were rolling through Metro Detroit. While severe weather was a possibility overnight, most storms in Southeast Michigan remained below severe limits. Stronger storms developed across West Michigan earlier, and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued for the Saginaw area.
Meanwhile, parts of the Thumb and Mid-Michigan are dealing with freezing rain and icy conditions, while Northern Michigan is under Ice Storm Warnings, including Alpena.
The biggest concern in Southeast Michigan Wednesday morning is heavy rainfall.
Several rounds of rain could produce localized flooding, especially in areas that typically collect water such as low-lying neighborhoods, underpasses and roads with poor drainage.
Flood safety tips
Drivers should be cautious of standing water on roadways. Even shallow water can hide hazards or stall vehicles Here is an important rule during flood events: Turn around, don’t drown.
Just a foot of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roadways and should seek alternate routes if water covers the road.
Heavy rain can also lead to basement flooding in some homes. Residents are encouraged to check sump pumps, clear nearby drains if possible and monitor lower levels of their homes for water intrusion during prolonged rainfall.
Conditions will gradually improve later Wednesday as the cold front moves through the region.
Temperatures will fall behind the front and winds will shift out of the west, bringing cooler air back into Southeast Michigan.
The roller coaster weather pattern will continue through the rest of the week.
This week’s forecast --> Wild weather: Heavy rain leading to flood concerns in Metro Detroit