Severe thunderstorms track southeast through Michigan
A slow-moving line of thunderstorms is expected to impact Michigan over a two-day period, beginning today, Tuesday, June 3, and continuing into Thursday morning, June 5. These storms are forecasted to gradually shift southeast, starting in northwest Lower Michigan before extending into southern and southeastern regions of the state.
These thunderstorms may become severe at times, although meteorologists are calling this a low-end severe weather event, rather than a widespread outbreak. The system will rely heavily on daytime heating to generate the necessary atmospheric instability, meaning that the strongest storms are forecasted for the late afternoons and early evenings on both days.
Tuesday: Brief severe gusts in Traverse City and surrounding regions
By this afternoon and evening, northwest Lower Michigan—including the Traverse City area—may experience isolated strong wind gusts, potentially exceeding 58 mph (93 km/h). According to the NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center, there’s about a five percent chance of these gusts developing. These winds could pose brief risks to construction sites, outdoor setups, and vulnerable structures.
However, these wind events are not expected to be widespread or long-lasting, and overnight weakening is anticipated as the storms lose heat-driven momentum.
Wednesday: Hail risk and strong winds over Detroit, Lansing, and the Thumb
By Wednesday afternoon and early evening, the focus of storm activity shifts southeastward. South-central Michigan, including areas like Lansing, southeast Michigan, including Detroit, and the Saginaw Valley and Thumb regions, will be under threat of severe thunderstorms.
These storms will again develop in the late afternoon, and carry a low-end threat of wind gusts over 58 mph. In addition, there is potential for hail, especially as storm intensity peaks later in the day.
Rainfall: Uneven but beneficial in parts of the state
The storm system will bring widespread rainfall, though amounts will likely vary significantly. Some areas that have experienced drier conditions over the past few months could benefit from the incoming precipitation, while others that are already moisture-sufficient may simply see runoff or pooling.
Preparedness note
While the overall severity is not extreme, these storms are capable of causing local damage. If you have outdoor equipment or vehicles you want to protect from potential hail or brief high winds, consider taking precautionary steps—especially in the late afternoon hours today and tomorrow.
