After record-breaking warmth on Monday, Southeast Michigan is heading into a day of changing weather, with the potential for severe thunderstorms late Tuesday into early Wednesday.
The 4Warn Weather Team has declared a 4Warn Weather Alert for Tuesday evening and overnight as a strong storm system approaches the region.
Unseasonably warm weather is fueling storm system
Monday brought unseasonably warm temperatures across Southeast Michigan, with Detroit reaching 73 degrees, breaking the previous record high of 71 degrees set in 2016. Flint also reached 72 degrees, tying its record for the date.
That surge of warm air is part of the same weather pattern now helping to energize a storm system expected to move through the Great Lakes Tuesday night.
Big temperature contrast across Southeast Michigan
While much of Metro Detroit will stay mild Tuesday with highs in the 60s, cooler air is pushing into parts of the Thumb and Tri-Cities region.
The cooler air near Lake Huron could create a sharp temperature contrast across the region.
Clouds will increase through the day, with a few isolated showers possible this afternoon, but the most significant weather is expected after sunset.
Severe storms possible tonight
Severe thunderstorms may develop late tonight 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.
Different hazards north of Metro Detroit
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.
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
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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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