St. Joseph, Mich. – A growing severe weather threat is now in place across southwest Michigan and northwest Ohio, where storms could rapidly intensify and impact travel and power through the afternoon.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 78 remains in effect until 5 p.m. CDT for counties across southwest Michigan—including Berrien, Cass, St. Joseph, Branch, and Hillsdale—as well as northwest Ohio counties such as Allen, Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert, and Williams.
This watch signals favorable conditions for storms capable of producing wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail large enough to damage vehicles and property. Storms may develop in clusters and move quickly east, increasing the risk for widespread impacts.
In Michigan, communities including Benton Harbor, Niles, Sturgis, and Coldwater are within the risk zone. In Ohio, cities such as Defiance, Van Wert, Wauseon, and areas west of Toledo could see storms intensify during the afternoon hours.
Major travel routes including I-94, U.S. 31, U.S. 12, and U.S. 24 may experience rapidly changing conditions, with sudden downpours, strong crosswinds, and reduced visibility. Power outages are also possible where stronger wind gusts occur.
Residents are urged to prepare now by securing outdoor items, charging devices, and staying alert for warnings. While not every location will see severe weather, any storm that develops could become dangerous quickly.
The primary threat window continues through late afternoon, with storms expected to move east or weaken by early evening. Additional warnings are likely as conditions evolve.
