Sunday's Stormy Surprises: Metro Detroit Braces for Severe Weather

The weather forecast for Sunday in Southeastern Michigan is looking quite dramatic. The Storm Prediction Center has upped the ante, placing most of the region under an Enhanced Risk for severe weather. This means that from Sunday afternoon into the evening, residents should be prepared for some intense conditions. The main culprit behind this weather shift is a strong cold front moving through the area. This front is expected to bring with it a variety of severe weather threats. Areas along and south of M-59, which includes most of Metro Detroit, are particularly at risk. So, what can residents expect? The primary threats include damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall. While the risk is low, there is still a chance for an isolated tornado. It's important to note that all modes of severe weather are possible, so it's crucial to stay alert and prepared. The timeline for this severe weather event is as follows: from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, showers and thunderstorms will begin to develop and move eastward towards Southeastern Michigan. The bulk of the severe weather is expected to hit between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM, with the threat of all modes of severe weather. By 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the severe weather threat should start to move out of the region. After 11:00 PM, a few rain showers may linger into the early overnight hours, with clouds remaining into Monday morning. Now, let's talk safety. If you're at home, head to the basement, under the stairs, or under a heavy piece of furniture. Cover your head with blankets or pillows to protect against flying debris. Keep windows closed and stay away from them. If you're at school, go to the lowest floor or basement and get to interior rooms or hallways. Stay out of gymnasiums and auditoriums. In public buildings, go to designated shelters or interior hallways on the lowest floor. Stay away from windows and do not go to your car. If you're out in the open, move away from the tornado at right angles. If it's near, do not try to outrun it. Get out of your car, lie flat in a ditch, and cover your head. Stay away from large trees or metal poles. If you're in a mobile home, get out immediately and find a sturdy building for shelter. Follow these guidelines to stay safe during the storm.