Thunderstorms are likely this evening across southeastern Michigan. There’s a chance some of these storms could become severe, mainly from 10pm-3am.
Any severe storms tonight will be capable of producing damaging wind gusts and large hail. There’s a possibility of tornadoes forming, but that seems relatively unlikely at the moment.
Some storms tonight will come with locally very heavy rainfall, which may produce localized flooding (particularly in areas of town prone to this problem, like Depot Street). Remember, don’t walk through or drive into flooded areas:
A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles.
In anticipation of this storm, try to get out around your neighborhood and clear out any storm drain blockages you notice. That’ll help your area avoid flooding.
Finally, storms tonight are likely to bring plenty of lightning. Stay safe.
Tune into our local emergency broadcasters for timely updates and alerts tonight, and follow me over at @ArborWX. It might be useful to review what a severe weather watch vs. a warning means:
Tornado Watch: The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) issues Public Tornado Watches to alert the public, media and emergency managers to organized thunderstorms forecast to produce three or more tornadoes or any tornado which could produce EF2 or greater damage.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch: The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) issues Public Severe Thunderstorm Watches to alert the public, media and emergency managers to organized thunderstorms forecast to produce six and more hail events of 1 inch (quarter) diameter or greater, or damaging winds of 50 knots (58 mph) or greater.
Tornado Warning: … are issued when there is radar indication and/or reliable spotter reports of a tornado.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning: … are issued when there is radar indication and/or reliable spotter reports of hail of 1 inch (quarter) diameter or greater, and/or wind gusts of 50 knots (58 mph) or greater.
