Residents in Michigan, especially in the northern and central parts of the state, should get ready for a stormy start to their Saturday. According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, strong thunderstorms are likely to hit between 1 a.m. and 9 a.m. on Saturday. The biggest threats are damaging winds and possibly large hail, especially near Traverse City, Gaylord, and Escanaba.
Where Storms Will Hit Hardest
Storms will begin forming overnight and become more widespread as they move north of I-96. Areas in the Upper Peninsula, such as Marquette, face a “slight risk” (Level 2) for severe weather.
Meanwhile, central parts of the state like Mt. Pleasant and Big Rapids are under a “marginal risk” (Level 1). This means there is a chance for some strong storms, though not as likely to be severe as in the north.
People living from Houghton to Lansing should watch for sudden gusts of wind, fallen branches, and even some power cuts. While the risk of tornadoes is low, hail could still develop in the stronger storm cells, especially north of US-10.
How to Stay Safe Overnight
If you have plans to travel early on Saturday, it’s smart to be cautious. Roads might be slippery or even flooded in some areas. Try to leave earlier or allow extra time. Also, make sure to secure any outdoor items like chairs or trash bins to prevent them from blowing away in the wind.
Keep weather alerts on your phone turned on so you get updates through the night. The storm activity is expected to slow down by late morning, but local weather services may issue more warnings if things get worse.
With storms rolling into Michigan early Saturday morning, residents should take steps to stay safe. The strongest weather is expected in the northern and central regions, with damaging winds and hail possible.
Though these storms should weaken by mid-morning, it’s important to stay alert through the night. Charge your phones, avoid unnecessary travel, and keep up with the latest weather alerts. Stay indoors during the peak storm hours and secure outdoor items tonight to reduce the chance of damage.
