Gaylord, Michigan – Residents across northern Michigan should prepare for the potential of severe thunderstorms tonight, with the greatest threat arriving after sunset as storms capable of damaging winds and large hail move across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, severe thunderstorms are most likely to develop between 8 p.m. and 3 a.m. While storms may remain scattered, any that become severe could produce damaging straight-line winds as the primary hazard. Large hail is also possible with the strongest storms, while the risk of tornadoes remains low.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of northern Lower Michigan, including Gaylord, Petoskey, Alpena, Cheboygan, Rogers City, Grayling, Mio and Tawas City, under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe thunderstorms. Areas of eastern Upper Michigan, including Escanaba and nearby communities, are under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5), indicating a greater potential for severe storms.
Strong wind gusts could down tree limbs, produce isolated power outages and make travel hazardous overnight. Frequent lightning and brief heavy rainfall will also accompany stronger storms, reducing visibility on area roadways.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings before going to bed, including Wireless Emergency Alerts, NOAA Weather Radio and trusted local media. Because storms are expected overnight, ensure mobile devices are charged and emergency alerts are enabled.
The storm threat is expected to diminish by early Monday morning, but additional updates or warnings may be issued if storms strengthen or their track changes overnight.
