Warm Weather and Light Winds Expected in Upper Michigan: Spotty Showers Possible This Weekend

Photo byNational Weather Service

Above-normal temperatures continue with limited chances for rain

MARQUETTE — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:24 AM on September 13, 2024.

Upper Michigan is set to experience an extended stretch of above-normal temperatures through next week, with highs predominantly in the upper 70s to 80s. A few scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible this weekend, primarily over the western parts of the region, but overall, a mostly dry and warm pattern will dominate the forecast period.

Chances for Showers and Thunderstorms This Weekend

A series of shortwave systems will move across the region, potentially bringing showers and thunderstorms to western Upper Michigan from Saturday afternoon through Sunday. The first shortwave, arriving from the Northern Plains, will initiate some rain and storm activity on Saturday afternoon. While there is enough instability to generate thunderstorms, severe weather is not expected due to marginal shear and minimal instability.

A secondary shortwave may pass through Sunday, enhancing the potential for scattered showers and thunderstorms. However, similar to Saturday, the storms are expected to be non-severe, with limited impacts.

Warm Temperatures Persist Through Next Week

Despite the minor rain chances, temperatures will remain well above normal. Highs will consistently reach the low to mid-80s, particularly in areas that experience downslope winds near Lake Superior and the interior west. Overnight lows will be mild, staying in the mid-50s in the interior and around 60 degrees near the Great Lakes.

Looking ahead, another shortwave could bring additional showers on Monday, but the overall weather pattern favors dry conditions and continued warmth as a high-pressure ridge builds back into the region.

Minimal Fire Weather Concerns

Although the area will experience dry conditions and low relative humidity at times (potentially dropping to 30% or lower), the presence of light winds will help mitigate significant fire weather concerns. Winds are expected to remain light, generally below 15 mph, reducing the potential for rapid fire spread.

Marine Forecast: Light Winds and Possible Thunderstorms

For Lake Superior, winds will remain light, generally at or below 20 knots, through the weekend and into next week. Mariners should be aware of possible thunderstorms on Saturday and Sunday, which could bring localized gusty winds and choppy conditions, particularly in the western parts of the lake.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast - Stay Updated

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