Flood Watch Tonight & Tomorrow for Michigan Regions
Temperatures in Michigan yesterday touched a sweltering muggy high of 86°, following a morning low of 65°. Though only 0.08 of an inch of rainfall was recorded yesterday, the forecast strongly suggests that the state will be receiving a considerable amount of rainfall in the coming hours. With the remnants of Tropical Depression Beryl making its way towards Michigan, it’s anticipated that tonight and tomorrow may witness a month’s worth of rain or more.
Flood Watch Declared
A flood watch has been declared effectual from this evening through Wednesday evening, with warnings for possible flooding triggered by excessive rainfall. A number of regions in central, south central, and southwest Michigan, which include counties such as Gratiot, Isabella, Montcalm, Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, and Jackson among others are expected to be affected. Inhabitants in these regions are urged to take necessary precautions to mitigate potential damages due to heavy rainfall and consequential flooding.
Expected Rainfall and Resulting Impacts
The remnants of the former hurricane Beryl are set to reach lower Michigan tonight, bringing considerable rainfall through Wednesday evening. Widespread rainfall ranging between 2-4 inches, with a heavier strip likely to receive 4-6 inches or more, is very likely across much of the Michigan area. Smaller creeks and streams are projected to experience flooding first, with rivers potentially reaching flood stage in certain locations over the coming days. As high as 90% precipitation is indicated for these regions under the influence of the tropical weather conditions.
Weather Forecast for the Week
Amidst these flooding imminent warnings, the rest of the week’s forecast is rather calm. Though the remnant weather conditions from Beryl may leave traces of rainfall and thunderstorm throughout Thursday, the weather slowly reverts to normal by Friday. The weekend anticipates mostly clear sunny days with highs ranging in the mid-80s.
Historical Weather Patterns
This extreme weather situation mirrors two contrasting records, both from July 9th. Back in 1956, cloudy and cool weather harvested a record low maximum temperature of just 64 degrees at Grand Rapids. In contrast, the temperature reached a searing 100 degrees in Flint in 1988 marking five straight days of record daily high temperatures—July 5-9.
Looking Ahead
Residents are urged to stay prepared for the impending severe weather conditions. Thus far, the statewide preparations include mitigation planning for flooding in urban areas, poor drainage areas, and creeks and streams. The general region south of a Grand Haven to Mount Pleasant line is the prime focus for authorities due to the impending heavy rainfall. As the state gears up for these severe weather conditions, residents are urged to stay tuned for updates and act responsibly to ensure their safety and the safety of their communities.
