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Storms, wildfire smoke to follow heat concerns in Metro Detroit

Friday, Saturday highs in upper 80s

Blanketed under a level one of five risk for severe thunderstorms in Southeast Michigan on Thursday, expect stronger storms before midnight. (WDIV)

4Warn Weather – The combination of heat, high humidity, and possible thunderstorm activity means both comfort and safety could be impacted.

A 4Warn Weather Alert has been declared for Southeast Michigan for Thursday due to the intense heat and high humidity.

A Heat Advisory is in effect for all of Southeast Michigan until 8 p.m. Thursday.

Heat index values or feel-like temperatures have reached at least 100 degrees in most communities and could reach as high as 105 degrees.

A Heat Advisory is in effect for all of Southeast Michigan until 8 p.m. Thursday. (WDIV)

The weather conditions could lead to heat illness. Young children, older adults, and individuals who are pregnant, work outside, or have chronic health conditions will face increased risks.

It will be essential to stay hydrated, wear lightweight and light-colored clothes, and take breaks from the sun and outdoors.

Consider checking on friends, family, and neighbors.

Metro Detroit is at the peak of a stretch of hot weather.

Following Thursday afternoon’s highs in the mid-90s, evening temperatures will remain in the lower-90s and 80s.

The warm and humid air will support the formation of isolated thunderstorms, including a couple that could become strong to severe.

The most common threat is heavy rainfall, which can lead to localized street flooding. Gusty winds up to 60 mph are also possible.

Storm motion will be east at 25-35 mph.

Blanketed under a level one of five risk for severe thunderstorms, expect stronger storms before midnight.

Blanketed under a level one of five risk for severe thunderstorms in Southeast Michigan on Thursday, expect stronger storms before midnight. (WDIV)

People should be prepared to seek shelter indoors from the sweltering heat and any approaching storms.

The chance for rain showers and thunderstorms will last into the overnight hours.

Expect temperatures to range from 70 to 74 degrees. Winds will become westerly at 5 to 10 mph and gusts up to 20 mph.

Friday: Slightly cooler, but still unsettled

Friday will be slightly cooler, but still hot and unsettled. A cold front will slowly slide through the area, slightly easing the heat.

Highs will be in the mid-to-upper 80s, with continued high humidity. There remains a chance for lingering showers and thunderstorms in the morning and afternoon.

Apart from the thunderstorm chance, air quality will be a concern for part of Southeast Michigan.

Air Quality Alert

An Air Quality Alert will be in effect for Sanilac County in Southeast Michigan from 3 a.m. Friday until night.

Wildfire smoke will affect air quality in the state, including the Saginaw Bay region, Northern Michigan, and the U.P.

Winds will be out of the west and northwest at 5 to 10 mph.

Weekend Outlook: Comfortable start, stormy finish

Saturday will bring a temporary break from the heat. Expect partly sunny skies with the chance of scattered rain showers.

The chance of showers and thunderstorms will last into the night. Highs will be in the mid-80s, with tolerable humidity levels.

However, on Sunday, the heat returns with highs again near 90. A few rain showers will be possible, mainly in the morning.

Looking ahead to next week: Unsettled pattern

Next week looks to continue the theme of on-and-off rain chances paired with warm, muggy air.

Temperatures will generally stay in the mid to upper 80s, with daily rain or storm chances through midweek.

Do you have photos of how you are trying to stay cool? Captured storm pics? Share your photos and videos with the Local 4 using MIPics. Your images could be featured on Local 4 News and ClickOnDetroit.com.


Find the latest forecast from the 4Warn Weather team here

Remember to download the free 4Warn weather app -- it’s easily one of the best in the nation. Just search your app store under WDIV, and it’s right there, available for both iPhones and Androids! Or click the appropriate link below.


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