Michigan Braces for a Series of Storms Expected to Bring 60 mph Wind Gusts and 1-inch Hail
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – A series of severe storms is headed for the southern half of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, with weather forecasts predicting high winds, heavy rain, and hail. The region, including cities from Mt. Pleasant to Saginaw and points south, find themselves within the marginal risk zone for these tempests, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Rapids has reported.
Three Rounds of Storms
The first round is projected to start around 3 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, marking the beginning of three possible severe storm rounds expected to lash Michigan in the upcoming days. “Storms may fire over Wisconsin tonight and move southeast toward Lower Michigan overnight,” NWS meteorologists said.
The potential for strong to severe storms exists, characterized by wind gusts as high as 60 mph and 1-inch hail in addition to locally heavy rainfall. While these conditions do not point towards the occurrence of tornadoes, they necessitate a higher level of precautions for residents with concerns of potential damage to properties and crops.
Monday’s Storm
Monday’s storm system forecasts carry an even greater risk for hail and damaging wind gusts. The territory under threat includes West Michigan areas like Muskegon, Holland, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, South Haven, and St. Joe.
Pre-storm Preparations
In light of the imminent storms, Consumers Energy has already issued a message to the public, indicating both their crews and contract crews from 13 other states are prepared for potential power outages and downed lines caused by the severe storms.
Chris Laird, VP for the utility’s electric operations, said, “We are getting our crews ready – and we want the public to be ready – for storms that could bring high wind gusts.”
Tips for Weathering the Storms
Consumers Energy has offered tips for residents to prepare for the storms. These include charging all electronic devices and having an emergency battery or charging station available. Creating an emergency kit with water, nonperishable food, blankets, and extra batteries is also recommended. The public is advised to be prepared with medications, baby supplies, and pet food. In the event of power outages, a battery-operated radio can be useful. Unplugging sensitive electronics and turning off power strips is also advised to prevent damage from power surges.
Laird acknowledged the intensity of this year’s weather, stating, “This year has been exceptional, with major storms pounding our state just about every month.”
As Michigan awaits the imminent storms, the commitment and readiness of lineworkers are seen as key to the speedy recovery that is hoped for in the aftermath of the forecasted weather events.
