The 4Warn Weather Alert has been extended today as wildfire smoke continues to blanket Southeast Michigan, giving Metro Detroit the worst air quality in the world again this morning. The Air Quality Alert remains in effect today as dense Canadian wildfire smoke continues to create Very Unhealthy to Hazardous air quality conditions across Metro Detroit and much of Southeast Michigan.
Smoke concentrations remain elevated this morning, making outdoor conditions unhealthy for everyone. People are encouraged to limit time outside, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and keep windows closed if possible. Those with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions should take extra precautions, as the poor air quality may worsen symptoms.
Despite the smoky skies, temperatures will climb to around 90 degrees this afternoon, adding heat to an already uncomfortable day.
There is some good news on the horizon. Smoke concentrations are expected to gradually improve tonight as winds shift out of the southwest following the passage of a warm front. That change in wind direction will help push the thickest smoke northeast, allowing air quality to slowly recover heading into Saturday.
Attention then turns to the threat for strong to severe thunderstorms on Saturday. Southeast Michigan is under a Marginal to Slight Risk for severe weather, with the greatest potential expected between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The primary threats with any stronger storms will be damaging wind gusts and a slight chance for rotation, plus lightning could accompany any thunderstorms that develop. Be sure to stay weather-aware if you have outdoor plans Saturday, as storms could develop quickly during the late morning and afternoon hours.
Behind the cold front, a much more comfortable air mass settles into the region. Dry weather returns on Sunday, along with cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and a welcome improvement in overall air quality, making for a much more pleasant end to the weekend.