Summer-like heat is making a comeback across Metro Detroit as temperatures surge into the upper 80s today and Friday under mostly sunny skies. The warm weather will provide a taste of midsummer, but increasing humidity and an approaching weather system will bring the return of showers and thunderstorms heading into the weekend.
Friday will start dry and hot, with highs reaching the upper 80s across Southeast Michigan. Rain and thunderstorm chances will begin increasing during the afternoon and continue into Friday evening and overnight. While widespread severe weather is not expected Friday, a few stronger storms may develop, especially across our western suburbs closer to Ann Arbor. These storms could produce hail up to 1 inch in diameter along with frequent lightning and brief heavy downpours.
The greater concern for severe weather arrives on Saturday as another round of scattered showers and thunderstorms develops during the afternoon and evening. Although Saturday will not be a washout, if you have outdoor plans you want to remain weather-aware as some storms could become strong to severe. The Storm Prediction Center has placed most of Southeast Michigan under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe weather, while areas south of I-94 are included in a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5), indicating a higher potential for severe storms. The primary threats will be damaging wind gusts and large hail, though localized heavy rainfall is also possible. The severe weather threat extends beyond Michigan, with scattered severe thunderstorms expected across portions of the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, Northeast, and northern High Plains.
The unsettled weather will be short-lived. Conditions improve Sunday as drier air moves into the region, bringing sunshine and temperatures in the low 80s. Pleasant weather is expected to continue into Monday before another warming trend develops.
By the middle of next week, temperatures are expected to climb back into the upper 80s, signaling another stretch of summer heat across Metro Detroit.
Forecast Highlights
- Today: Mostly sunny, high near 87.
- Friday: Partly sunny and breezy at times. Afternoon thunderstorms possible, high near 88.
- Saturday: Showers likely with afternoon thunderstorms possible. High near 84.
- Sunday: Drier and partly cloudy. High near 81.