Grand Rapids, MI – A line of potentially severe thunderstorms could sweep through portions of West Michigan Tuesday afternoon, bringing damaging winds and lightning to communities mainly south of Interstate 96.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, storms could affect the region between noon and 6 p.m. Tuesday, with damaging winds considered the primary severe weather threat. Forecasters said the strongest potential is south of I-96.
The severe weather outlook places southwestern Lower Michigan, including areas around Benton Harbor and south of Grand Rapids, within higher threat zones. Communities farther north have a lower severe weather risk.
Forecasters currently indicate a 20% to 40% damaging wind threat, while the probabilities shown for large hail and tornadoes are lower, at up to 20%.
The forecast remains uncertain. The National Weather Service said thunderstorms developing Monday night could influence what happens Tuesday. Depending on how those storms evolve, the expected Tuesday storm line could track farther south and miss more of West Michigan.
If storms do reach the region, however, residents should be prepared for potentially damaging winds and frequent lightning. Severe thunderstorms can knock down trees and power lines, creating travel hazards and possible power outages.
Drivers traveling along or south of the I-96 corridor, including communities in the Grand Rapids metro and toward southwest Michigan, should monitor conditions before afternoon travel.
Residents are encouraged to keep multiple ways to receive weather warnings and follow updated forecasts Tuesday as meteorologists determine the eventual track and strength of the storms.
