Warmer-than-normal September to feel like extended summer in Michigan, according to AccuWeather's U.S. Fall Forecast

DETROIT (WWJ) -- If you've been dreaming of a white Halloween, you may be out of luck in 2024.

According to AccuWeather's U.S. Fall Forecast , released on Wednesday, while meteorological fall starts on Sunday, September 1, for many it will take much longer before cool, crisp autumn weather arrives.

In fact, AccuWeather Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok says the Metro Detroit region and all of Michigan is expected to stay pretty hot this September, and likely frost-free well into October, too.

"You know, it wasn't too bad here in July; kind of close to normal on the averages," said Pastelok, speaking live with WWJ's Jackie Paige. "But we are expecting some changes that'll take place as we get into August and maybe September, where some of that heat that's been out west starts to kind of translate toward us a little bit, and we could see above-average temperatures going into the fall season."

While he can't promise a coat-free Halloween night this far ahead, Pastelok said of spooky season: "I don't think at this point I see any really early surges of cold or snow...So, I would, you know, favor that it would be more above average on temperatures around that time period."

Pastelok said Michiganders should, however, stay alert to a chance for some extra stormy weather as summer winds down.

"Actually, we're transitioning into possibly a weak La Niña as we go in, which means that we'll start to see the northern storm track get a little more active; especially noticeable as we get into the cool season," he said.

"But, in the meantime, I think what we're gonna see is the flattening of this big upper-level high that's been in the west — causing all those fires and the dry weather there — some of that heat will expand to Great Lakes area. And we'll still have our typical cold fronts that come through and knock us down a little bit, bringing a couple of thunderstorms and maybe even some late severe weather season. It could pick up here in the Detroit area."

Looking at the wider U.S. forecast , Pastelok said a warm autumn is expected for nearly all of the country, as the transition from summery to fall-like weather takes place slower and much later than usual.

"Outdoor projects and activities which you would typically see winding down during the fall season will continue well into the season for many areas," Pastelok said.

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