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Heavy rain, gusty winds possible from Metro Detroit’s nighttime storms

Temperatures rising above 70 degrees Friday afternoon

The main window for stronger storms arrives after 9 p.m. Thursday as a cold front approaches from the west. Storms are expected to move northeastward at around 50 miles per hour, reaching Southeast Michigan during the late evening and early overnight hours. (WDIV)

4Warn Weather – An active weather pattern is developing across Southeast Michigan, with several rounds of showers and thunderstorms forecast.

A warm front lifting through the region is helping temperatures rebound from the 30s earlier in the day into the 60s by late evening, while also setting the stage for unsettled weather.

The main window for stronger storms arrives after 9 p.m. as a cold front approaches from the west.

Storms are expected to move northeastward at around 50 miles per hour, reaching Southeast Michigan during the late evening and early overnight hours.

The main window for stronger storms arrives after 9 p.m. Thursday as a cold front approaches from the west. Storms are expected to move northeastward at around 50 miles per hour, reaching Southeast Michigan during the late evening and early overnight hours. (WDIV)

The greatest chance for stronger storms will be west of US-23, with a gradual weakening trend expected as storms move east toward Metro Detroit.

Even so, storms that hold together could still produce wind gusts exceeding 60 miles per hour, which is the primary concern.

Heavy rainfall may also lead to ponding on roads and localized flooding, especially in low-lying or poorly drained areas.

Hail is a secondary threat, though limited instability suggests hail size would generally remain around or below one inch.

These threats are prompting a 4Warn Weather Alert.

The timing of the storms could impact evening plans, including the Detroit Pistons game at Little Caesars Arena, scheduled for 7 p.m.

While fans will be dry heading to the game, conditions are expected to deteriorate later in the evening as storms approach, potentially affecting travel from the event.

Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.

Understanding the difference between watches and warnings is key. A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for storms to develop, while a warning indicates that a storm is already occurring or imminent and poses an immediate threat.

If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, people should move indoors immediately, stay away from windows, and avoid traveling if possible.

Strong winds in severe storms can cause damage comparable to that of weak tornadoes, making it important to take these warnings seriously.

The worst weather should be over by midnight.

Friday

Conditions improve on Friday, bringing a return to dry weather and a mix of sun and clouds.

Temperatures will climb into the 70s, providing favorable conditions for the Detroit Tigers’ home opener at Comerica Park in the early afternoon.

This weekend

The active pattern resumes over the weekend. Another system is expected to bring showers and thunderstorms on Saturday, followed by a noticeable cooldown.

High temperatures on Easter Sunday will fall back into the 40s, with cloudy skies and a brisk feel returning to the region.

The Detroit Red Wings will host an afternoon game at Little Caesars Arena on Sunday under those cooler conditions.

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