4Warn Weather – The Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix is set to roar through downtown Detroit this weekend, and the weather forecast is shaping up to be nearly as impressive as the racing itself.
After a pleasant Thursday with temperatures near seasonal averages and plenty of sunshine across Southeast Michigan, an extended stretch of dry weather is expected to carry right through the weekend.
It is welcome news for race fans or anyone planning outdoor activities around Metro Detroit.
Thursday afternoon temperatures climbed into the 70s for most communities, close to the average high of 74 degrees.
Cooler readings remained in the Thumb, where northeast winds off Lake Huron kept highs in the 60s and lower 70s.
The sunshine has made for ideal weather to get outside, whether it is dining on a patio, walking along the riverfront, spending time on the water, or preparing for one of Detroit’s biggest summer events.
But even in comfortable temperatures, the late-May sun is strong enough to produce a high UV index during the afternoon.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and staying hydrated remain important, especially for people spending long stretches outdoors.
Friday
Friday marks the opening day of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix, which runs through Sunday on the streets surrounding the Renaissance Center and downtown Riverfront.
Conditions look excellent for the start of the event.
Temperatures on Friday are expected to warm into the upper 70s to lower 80s under mostly sunny skies.
Winds will stay fairly light, making for comfortable conditions for spectators walking around downtown or sitting trackside for long periods.
A weak cold front is expected to slide through Friday night, but moisture is extremely limited.
That means little more than a subtle wind shift and slightly cooler temperatures heading into Saturday.
Rain is not expected.
Saturday
Saturday will feel noticeably cooler, especially near Lake Huron and the immediate lakeshore communities, where northeast winds may hold temperatures in the upper 60s.
Metro Detroit should still reach around 70 degrees with abundant sunshine.
Sunday
By Sunday, temperatures moderate again into the middle and upper 70s with continued dry weather and a mix of sun and passing clouds.
Overall, the weekend forecast remains highly favorable for outdoor plans from start to finish.
Workweek
The dry stretch is expected to continue into early next week as high pressure remains firmly in control across the Great Lakes.
The rainfall chances remain limited through at least the middle of next week.
For race fans and anyone making plans across southeast Michigan, this may end up being one of the more comfortable and cooperative weather weekends Detroit has seen in quite some time.
Remember to share your weather photos with Local 4 at MIPics.