Updated: May. 07, 2024, 12:08 p.m. Published: May. 07, 2024, 11:44 a.m.

Southern Michigan residents are advised to brace themselves for a rough and stormy afternoon and evening as severe thunderstorms are predicted to sweep across the region. The weather scenario, which has a high level of confidence, indicates that there will be two rounds of rain, with the second round potentially being more potent and severe.

According to radar forecasts, the first line of thunderstorms in Wisconsin will weaken as it moves towards Michigan, transforming into showers and non-severe thundershowers by early afternoon. These thundershowers will pass through southwest Lower between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and then move into eastern Lower from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. However, by the time they reach the eastern half of Michigan, they are expected to have significantly weakened and dried up.

The second round of storms, on the other hand, will be fueled by higher levels of heat and moisture. Although the exact placement of these individual thunderstorms may vary by a county or two, the forecast model predicts a high probability of their occurrence. Individual storms have a higher chance of producing large hail and isolated tornadoes, posing potential risks for residents.

Areas from Grand Rapids to Flint and southward, including Kalamazoo, Lansing, Jackson, Ann Arbor, the Detroit area, and Monroe, have the highest likelihood of experiencing the strongest severe storms. The stormy period is expected to last from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. across southern Lower Michigan.

The Storm Prediction Center has identified the highest severe weather risks, including wind gusts, hail, and tornadoes, in the yellow shaded area of southern Michigan. Tornado risk is particularly elevated in the brown shaded area, while the risk of large hail is concentrated along the southern border of the state.

Residents are urged to exercise caution and take necessary precautions during this period of severe weather. While the chance of being directly affected by large hail is slim, it is advisable to protect vehicles and property by parking them in garages if possible.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing weather situation as the afternoon and evening progress.