Detroit, Michigan – Damaging thunderstorms are set to rip through parts of Michigan and Ohio this evening, with wind gusts up to 70 mph, hail as large as ping pong balls, and even a chance of isolated tornadoes before 10 p.m. Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for southern Lower Michigan and northwest Ohio, including major metro areas like Detroit, Toledo, and Ann Arbor. The fast-moving system, known as a bow echo, was racing northeast from Indiana as of 4:10 p.m. EDT.
Cities at highest risk include Lansing, Monroe, Flint, Adrian, and Findlay. Scattered trees and powerlines may fall due to wind gusts, while isolated hail could damage cars and roofs. Motorists on I-75, I-69, and I-80 should be prepared for sudden visibility loss and strong crosswinds.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, charge devices, and avoid unnecessary travel through the evening. Schools and hospitals across more than a dozen counties could be impacted.
This is the same storm system responsible for severe weather across the Midwest earlier this week.
Warnings remain in effect until 10 p.m., with additional alerts possible into the overnight hours.
