Detroit, Michigan – Residents across southeast Michigan should remain weather aware Sunday as conditions become favorable for isolated severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts and hail. While widespread severe weather is not expected, any storm that intensifies could quickly create hazardous travel conditions during the late afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac, a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe thunderstorms covers much of Lower Michigan on Sunday. Storms could begin developing as early as 10 a.m., but the greatest risk for severe weather is expected between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., with activity winding down by 11 p.m.
The threat includes wind gusts approaching 60 mph and hail up to 1 inch in diameter, while the tornado risk remains minimal. Forecasters note that uncertainty remains regarding how widespread thunderstorms will become, as a layer of warm air aloft could limit storm development. However, any storm that breaks through that cap could become severe.
Communities including Detroit, Ann Arbor, Flint, Pontiac, Monroe, Port Huron, Adrian, and Lansing should monitor changing weather conditions throughout the day. Motorists traveling on I-75, I-94, I-96, and US-23 may encounter sudden downpours, gusty winds, and dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning if storms develop.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially during the afternoon and evening when many people are outdoors. Secure loose outdoor items ahead of the storms and move indoors immediately if thunder is heard.
The severe weather threat is expected to end by late Sunday evening, although updated outlooks or warnings may be issued if storm coverage or intensity increases.
