Severe weather is affecting parts of Southeast Michigan as a strong storm system moves through the region on Saturday afternoon. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning that will remain in effect for southeastern Oakland County and southern Macomb County until 2:30 p.m.
As of 1:30 p.m., the prior Severe Thunderstorm Warning for northwestern Wayne and northeastern Washtenaw counties has expired, indicating that those storms have moved out of the region.
According to the NWS, severe thunderstorms are expected to impact several cities at specific times: Livonia, Southfield, Taylor, Pontiac, Romulus, and Dearborn around 1:10 p.m.; Birmingham and Greenfield Village at approximately 1:15 p.m.; Troy and Royal Oak by 1:20 p.m.; Detroit Zoo around 1:30 p.m.; and finally Detroit and Sterling Heights around 1:35 p.m. Other affected areas include Warren, Downtown Detroit, Belle Isle, and Clinton Township, with potential impacts in surrounding communities like Franklin, Keego Harbor, and Roseville.
In light of the severe weather, individuals attending outdoor events such as the Royal Oak Outdoor Art Fair and activities at Comerica Park are urged to seek shelter immediately. The NWS recommends moving to an interior room on the lowest floor of any building to ensure safety.
Heavy rainfall accompanying the storms may result in flash flooding; therefore, drivers are advised to avoid flooded roadways.
Weather updates and safety information will continue to be provided by local news outlets, and it’s encouraged to stay informed through weather apps and outage maps to navigate the storm’s effects effectively.
While severe weather can be alarming, it’s a reminder of the importance of community readiness and safety measures during unpredictable conditions.