All of Michigan at risk for severe weather: Timeline, biggest threats by area

Damaging winds, hail, isolated tornado risk in parts of Michigan

Severe Weather Prediction Center forecast on May 21, 2024. (SWPC/NOAA)

4Warn Weather – The entire state of Michigan is at risk for severe weather on Tuesday.

The Severe Weather Prediction Center has all of the state, including the Upper Peninsula, in play for severe storms, with the higher risk on the west side of the state.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect across Michigan:

Metro Detroit

Southeast Michigan is listed in the “marginal risk” category for severe weather, the lowest of the five-level scale.

There will be two windows for potential thunderstorms development today, once in the afternoon and evening, and again overnight. Winds to 60 mph and hail to an inch will be the main threats.

Damaging winds and large hail are the biggest threats for Metro Detroit.

---> Here’s when storms are possible this week in Metro Detroit

---> Track live radar and forecasts here

West Michigan

West Michigan has the highest risk for severe weather on Tuesday, with areas including Grand Rapids and Benton Harbor in the “enhanced” category, the third level on a scale.

---> Severe weather in Michigan: What each risk level means

The highest threat is west of U.S. 131.

Damaging winds are the biggest threats, but an isolated tornado and large hail can’t be ruled out.

The window for storms is from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. (Wednesday)

West Michigan severe weather forecast. (NWS Grand Rapids)

Northern Lower Michigan

Here’s the forecast from NWS Gaylord: A line of thunderstorms is expected to move into the area later this evening into tonight. Damaging wind gusts will be the utmost concern, though some hail will be possible. The best overall chances for severe storms will be west of I-75 owing to an expected weakening trend as the line passes through northern Michigan.

Storms could have damaging winds, large hail, frequent lightning and an isolated tornado.

The window for storms is 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. Wednesday.

Michigan Upper Peninsula

Here’s the forecast from NWS Marquette: A couple of waves of showers and thunderstorms are expected later today and tonight. There is the potential for strong to severe storms with the second wave this evening.

Biggest risks with storms are wind damage and large hail.

---> Here are tips for staying safe during severe weather in Metro Detroit


About the Author

Ken Haddad has proudly been with WDIV/ClickOnDetroit since 2013. He also authors the Morning Report Newsletter and various other newsletters, and helps lead the WDIV Insider team. He's a big sports fan and is constantly sipping Lions Kool-Aid.

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