The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a tornado watch for portions of southwest Lower Michigan, central and northern Illinois, central and northern Indiana, and southeast Wisconsin. The tornado watch encompasses several counties in Michigan, including Allegan, Berrien, Cass, Kalamazoo, Kent, Ottawa, St. Joseph, and Van Buren, which includes the cities of Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo.

The tornado watch will remain in effect until 9 p.m., with the potential for a few tornadoes, including a couple of intense ones. Residents should also be prepared for scattered large hail, with isolated instances of very large hail up to 2.5 inches in diameter. Additionally, scattered damaging wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph are possible.

As of 4:15 p.m., scattered thunderstorms are already developing across southern Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and southern Lake Michigan. These thunderstorms are expected to continue and may intensify throughout the afternoon and early evening. The unstable atmospheric conditions in the tornado watch area will likely give rise to supercellular storms, which can produce large to very large hail, severe wind gusts, and tornadoes. Some of the more intense supercells may even result in a strong tornado.

Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay updated on the developing weather situation. It is recommended to seek shelter in a sturdy building, preferably in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, in case a tornado warning is issued. Keep an eye on local news and listen for emergency alerts for any updates or evacuation orders.

Take note of the updated radar over southwest Lower Michigan, where the tornado watch remains in effect. Stay vigilant and exercise caution until the watch expires later this evening.