LOWER MICHIGAN — A warm storm system moving across the state could bring the first widespread thunderstorms of the season, with the potential for isolated severe storms and hail across much of Lower Michigan.
Forecasters say while widespread high-end severe weather is not expected, parts of the region could see strong thunderstorms Friday afternoon and evening, followed by another round Saturday morning into early afternoon.
Two Rounds of Storms Expected
According to the Storm Prediction Center, the storm system will impact Michigan in two main waves.
The first round of storms is expected Friday afternoon and early evening. A second, more organized line of thunderstorms is forecast to move through Saturday morning or early afternoon.
The latest update expanded the “marginal” severe weather risk significantly north and east. Areas now included in the marginal risk zone extend as far east as Saginaw and Caro and as far north as Mio and Atlanta.
Southeast Michigan Risk on Saturday
For Saturday into early Sunday, the severe weather outlook indicates a five percent chance of isolated severe storms in far southeast Michigan, including Ann Arbor and Detroit.
While the risk remains low, meteorologists note that even marginal systems can produce brief, isolated severe conditions.
Primary Threat: Hail
The main threat from this system is hail.
March thunderstorms in Michigan often produce hail because colder air remains aloft even as surface temperatures warm. That contrast helps hailstones form more easily in stronger updrafts.
Updated projections show a five to 14 percent chance of large hail across much of Lower Michigan, particularly in areas shaded in the latest forecast models.
Tornado and Wind Risk Low
The Storm Prediction Center has not included Lower Michigan in an official tornado or damaging wind outlook at this time.
However, meteorologists caution that while the probability is very low, isolated strong wind gusts or brief spin-ups cannot be completely ruled out during stronger cells.
Timing Breakdown
Friday Afternoon and Early Evening
Storm clusters could develop and become briefly strong or severe, with hail being the primary concern.
Saturday Morning to Early Afternoon
A more organized line of storms is expected to move through, with continued hail potential and isolated severe risk.
What Residents Should Watch For
- Rapidly developing thunderstorms Friday afternoon
- Brief heavy downpours
- Hail in stronger cells
- Lightning and gusty winds
Drivers and outdoor event planners should monitor updated forecasts, especially during peak storm timing windows.
Stay Weather Aware
Although this is not expected to be a high-end severe outbreak, it marks the first notable thunderstorm event of the season for many communities across Lower Michigan.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Keep weather alerts enabled on mobile devices
- Monitor local radar and forecast updates
- Seek shelter indoors if thunderstorms develop
For continued weather updates, breaking alerts, and regional coverage, visit GunnisonGiddyUp.com and stay informed as this system moves through Michigan.
