WEST MICHIGAN — The Storm Prediction Center has placed West Michigan under a threat for severe weather on Saturday due to a passing cold front. The greatest potential for severe weather will be in the evening and overnight. Damaging wind gusts, hail, and heavy downpours are the primary concerns. An isolated tornado is possible.
Where is the greatest threat for severe weather?
At this time, all of West Michigan falls under a MARGINAL RISK for severe thunderstorms. The threat was lowered by the Storm Prediction Center shortly after 4 p.m. Saturday. Parts of Wisconsin and Illinois remain under a SLIGHT RISK for severe thunderstorms.
When will storms develop?
The greatest potential for strong to severe thunderstorms in West Michigan will be after 8 p.m. Saturday. Thunderstorms will travel from the northwest towards the southeast on Saturday evening, producing heavy rain and frequent lightning.
Localized flooding will be possible with these passing storms due to the high moisture content in our atmosphere. Thunderstorms will progress towards I-96 after 9 p.m. Saturday and towards I-94 after 11 p.m. Saturday.
Showers will extend towards the east side of Michigan overnight Saturday and into early Sunday morning.
What are the severe weather threats?
All modes of severe weather are possible. Damaging wind gusts and hail are the primary concerns. An isolated tornado is also possible. The high-level moisture in the atmosphere will lead to heavy downpours where localized flooding is possible.
Flooding is a concern for our northern communities tonight into Sunday as well, with a FLOOD WATCH beginning at noon Saturday.
How can I receive alerts?
The best way to stay informed during severe weather events is to download the FOX 17 News App or the FOX 17 Weather App for immediate alerts.
You can also follow FOX 17 News on social media, watch FOX 17 News on-air, or visit our website. With many of us planning to spend time outside on Sunday for the holiday weekend, you will want to have multiple ways of receiving severe weather alerts.
For the latest details on the weather in West Michigan, head to the FOX 17 Weather page.
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