Red Flags and Cold Fronts: Michigan's Weather Roller Coaster

Photo byNational Weather Service

High winds and above-normal temperatures prompt a Red Flag Warning for the Tri-Cities and Thumb area as Michigan braces for a cold front.

Michigan faces gusty winds, rising temperatures, and potential fire risks ahead of a weekend cold front.

DETROIT — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:57 AM on Friday, October 11, 2024.

A Red Flag Warning has been issued today for Michigan’s Tri-Cities and Thumb region due to breezy conditions and dry fuel, posing a high fire risk. Temperatures are expected to rise well above normal, hitting the mid-to-upper 70s, with gusts reaching 25 to 35 mph. The warning remains in effect from 8 AM to 8 PM on Friday, October 11.

Warm Weather and High Winds Bring Fire Risks to Tri-Cities and Thumb

As the Great Plains' warm air pushes into southeast Michigan, the region is experiencing abnormally high temperatures and gusty southwest winds. The National Weather Service warns that the combination of dry fuels and wind will increase the risk of wildfires, especially in the Tri-Cities and the Thumb area.

While most locations will see gusts around 25 mph, isolated areas could experience gusts as high as 35 mph, especially in the Thumb and Tri-Cities regions.

Cold Front Arriving Overnight, Bringing Cooler Weather

A cold front is set to move across southeast Michigan overnight, bringing a significant drop in temperatures by Saturday morning. As the front passes, cooler air will settle in, dropping daytime highs into the low 60s in the northern areas and upper 60s near the Michigan-Ohio border.

While the frontal passage is expected to be mostly dry, there is a slight 10-20% chance of isolated showers late tonight and early Saturday. However, any moisture will be limited, meaning a mostly dry event for most areas.

Rain and Thunderstorm Potential Late Saturday into Sunday

The cold front will stall south of Michigan, increasing the chance of rain late Saturday night into Sunday. Rain is expected to move northward, and some locations along I-94 could experience isolated thunderstorms. By Sunday afternoon, widespread showers are likely across much of southern Michigan.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast - Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the NWS. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, your local news channels, and NOAA All Hazards Radio.
Follow ThumbWind Publications for more local weather and news updates. Your helpful comments are welcome.