Powerful winds are sweeping across Southeast Michigan Friday, toppling trees, knocking out power and creating dangerous conditions across the region.
A 4Warn Weather Alert remains in effect through Friday as a High Wind Warning continues for all of Southeast Michigan until 10 p.m.
The strongest gusts so far have reached over 70 miles per hour, approaching the strength of winds typically seen in severe thunderstorms.
Highest wind gusts reported
According to weather observations through Friday afternoon, winds were strongest near the I-94 corridor:
- Ann Arbor: 71 mph
- Romulus (Detroit Metro Airport): 71 mph
- Belleville: 66 mph
- Detroit: 66 mph
- Adrian: 63 mph
- Monroe: 60 mph
- Mount Clemens: 56 mph
- Waterford Township: 53 mph
- Lambertville: 51 mph
Those winds are strong enough to uproot trees and snap large branches, which has already been reported in several communities.
More downed power lines and outages are possible through the evening as winds continue to gust.
Why the winds are so strong
A powerful storm system moving through the Great Lakes has created a tight pressure gradient, allowing strong winds in the atmosphere to mix down to the surface.
Warm temperatures earlier Friday helped enhance that mixing, allowing powerful winds aloft to reach the ground.
How this impacts daily life
The winds are already affecting daily routines across Southeast Michigan.
Residents may encounter:
- Downed tree limbs blocking sidewalks and roads
- Power outages in some neighborhoods
- Difficult driving conditions
Drivers of SUVs, trucks and other high-profile vehicles should be especially cautious on open highways and bridges.
Outdoor items such as patio furniture, trash cans and decorations can also become airborne in winds this strong.
Safety reminders during high winds
Residents are urged to take precautions as the high winds continue. If you encounter a downed power line:
- Stay at least 35 feet away from the line.
- Never assume a power line is safe to touch.
- Call 911 or your utility company immediately.
Other safety tips include:
- Avoid parking vehicles under large trees.
- Use extra caution when driving, especially on highways.
What to expect this weekend
The weather will calm down Saturday, though temperatures will remain cool. However, another storm system arrives late in the weekend.
Saturday
- Mostly quiet and cool.
Saturday night
- Snow may develop overnight.
Sunday
- Snow changes to rain as warmer air moves in.
- Temperatures surge into the 50s and possibly near 60 degrees.
- Winds pick up in the afternoon with gusts over 40 mph.
Sunday night
- Strong thunderstorms may develop, bringing another round of heavy rain and gusty winds.
Turning sharply colder next week
Behind that system, colder air rushes into Michigan.
- Windy conditions return Monday.
- Temperatures tumble Monday night.
- Wind chills could drop near zero Tuesday morning, with highs only in the 20s.
After the dramatic temperature swing, temperatures are expected to slowly moderate later next week.
View images of the wind damage or share your own photos with Local 4 at MIPics.