Detroit, Michigan – A hazy sky hangs over southeast Michigan as wildfire smoke filters the sunshine, but the biggest weather changes are still ahead. Heat will build through the afternoon before thunderstorms race into the Detroit area, bringing gusty winds, heavy rain and rapidly changing travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), a statewide Air Quality Alert remains in effect because of Canadian wildfire smoke. Fine particle pollution continues across southeast Michigan, while afternoon temperatures climb to around 92 degrees. Combined with humidity, the heat index could reach 100 degrees.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop after 2 p.m. Rain chances increase to 70% during the afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service says localized heavy rainfall and wind gusts approaching 40 mph are possible. Stronger storms may also produce frequent lightning. While tornado potential remains low, it cannot be completely ruled out in stronger summertime storms, so residents should stay weather-aware.
Drivers on I-75, I-94, I-96, I-275 and the Lodge Freeway should prepare for changing visibility from both smoke and heavy downpours. Wet pavement and brief ponding could slow travel during the afternoon and evening. If possible, limit strenuous outdoor activity while smoke levels remain elevated, especially if you have asthma, heart disease or other respiratory conditions.
Conditions improve Sunday with sunshine returning after early patchy smoke and a high near 82 degrees. Monday stays mostly sunny with highs around 84 degrees, but another round of showers and thunderstorms arrives Monday night into Tuesday. Tuesday reaches 86 degrees before additional storms develop during the afternoon.
The Climate Prediction Center continues to favor above-normal temperatures across the Great Lakes during the 6-to-10-day outlook, suggesting warm summer weather will continue into late next week.
If you’re heading out today, keep an eye on both the sky and the air quality. Have you noticed smoky conditions where you live? Let us know what you’re seeing.
Five-Day Forecast for Detroit, Michigan
- Sunday: Patchy smoke early, then mostly sunny. High 82°F, Low 63°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny. High 84°F, Low 68°F.
- Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms possible after 2 p.m. High 86°F, Low 61°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny. High 75°F, Low 58°F.
- Thursday: Sunny. High 80°F, Low 62°F.
