Detroit, Mich. – Calm skies this morning won’t last. Warm, humid air is building across southeast Michigan, and forecasters say the atmosphere will become increasingly unstable through the afternoon. By later today, fast-developing thunderstorms could bring damaging winds, hail and torrential rain that quickly disrupt travel across metro Detroit.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac, strong to severe thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and evening as a cold front moves through southeast Michigan. The strongest storms could produce wind gusts up to 70 mph, hail up to 1 inch in diameter, locally heavy rainfall, and even an isolated tornado. Storms are expected to move from northwest to southeast at around 40 mph, allowing conditions to change rapidly.
Motorists along I-75, I-94, I-96, M-10, M-39, and I-275 should prepare for sudden visibility drops, water-covered pavement, and strong crosswinds during the afternoon and evening commute. Secure loose outdoor furniture before storms arrive, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. If a warning is issued, move indoors immediately and stay away from windows.
Today’s high reaches 87 degrees before thunderstorms become more widespread. Showers and storms continue into the evening with rainfall amounts between one-half and three-quarters of an inch possible, with locally higher totals beneath stronger cells. While widespread flooding is not expected, localized street flooding may occur where the heaviest rain falls in a short period.
Conditions improve noticeably Tuesday as cooler, drier air arrives. Afternoon highs settle near 80 degrees under partly sunny skies, followed by sunshine and comfortable temperatures through Wednesday and Thursday.
The Climate Prediction Center’s 6-to-10-day outlook continues to favor above-normal temperatures across the Great Lakes, suggesting warmer summer weather could return after this brief cooldown.
Five-Day Forecast for Detroit, Michigan
- Today: Isolated showers, then scattered thunderstorms. High 87°F.
- Tonight: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Low 68°F.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny and cooler. High 80°F.
- Tuesday Night: Partly cloudy. Low 63°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny. High 81°F.
