Gaylord & Northern Michigan Bakes, But Cooler Weather is Near

Photo byNational Weather Service

Unseasonably warm air continues to hover over northern Michigan, raising fire danger. Cooler weather and rain chances arrive midweek.

GAYLORD — Issued by the National Weather Service at 4:05 AM on October 21, 2024.

Warm Temps Bring Fire Risk Before Cold Front Arrives

Northern Michigan is experiencing unseasonably warm conditions with temperatures reaching the upper 70s to near 80°F through Tuesday. Alongside the warmth, elevated fire danger persists, especially in the afternoons, as dry fuels and low humidity raise concerns, according to the National Weather Service.

Dry and Warm Conditions Hold, But Change is Coming

Northern Michigan's weather will remain stable under high pressure with minimal cloud cover through Monday night. Tonight, a weak disturbance will bring some high clouds, particularly over eastern Upper Michigan, but no rain is expected due to the dry air mass.

Forecast highs on Monday may approach record-breaking levels with low temperatures staying in the 50s—unusual for late October.

Tuesday: Fire Danger Continues as Winds Increase

The fire weather risk extends into Tuesday, with highs again in the upper 70s. Critical factors include:

• Dry fuels and near-critical humidity levels
• Breezy southwest winds
• Warm, dry air mass

Conditions will shift later Tuesday night as cloud cover increases with the approach of a cold front.

Cold Front Brings Cooler Weather and Rain Chances Midweek

A cold front moving into the Great Lakes Region Tuesday night will introduce cooler, more seasonable temperatures by Wednesday. Rainfall with this front is expected to be light and spotty, with only occasional showers likely as the front passes.

Southwest winds will shift to northwest, bringing gusty conditions. This shift could produce lake effect rain showers over parts of northern Michigan Wednesday night. Daytime highs will drop to 50-55°F, more in line with late October norms.

Weekend Outlook: Temperatures to Rebound Before Rain Returns

Following a brief midweek cooldown, warmer air is expected to return on Friday and Saturday, pushing temperatures above normal once more. Another chance of rain looms Saturday evening as a new weather system moves into the area.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast – Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the National Weather Service. Please look for updates to this report from local news channels or NOAA All Hazards radio.
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