Metro Detroit residents are facing moderately severe flood warnings this weekend, with river levels rising due to melting snowpacks and above-average temperatures. The north branch of the Clinton River, near Mount Clemens in Macomb County, is one area particularly affected, with forecasts predicting the river cresting Saturday evening before receding below the flood stage by Sunday afternoon. According to The Detroit News, floodwaters are expected to affect some structures as the river approaches the 16-foot mark.
Besides river overflows, a broken water transmission main in Northville added to the deluge early Friday, spilling water into the local area. The National Weather Service (NWS) has advised motorists to exercise caution and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Alex Manion, an NWS meteorologist, warned, "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads," emphasizing that most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Despite the situation, Saturday is predicted to remain dry with temperatures lingering near 40 degrees, which is nearly 10 degrees above average for late January, The Detroit News reported.
A late Friday update indicated that Rouge River levels had measured at 17 feet, though the flood warning for this river was discontinued Saturday evening, ClickOnDetroit.com stated. In St. Clair County, a flood warning remains in effect until noon Sunday, with flooding already observed along the Black River and Pine River.
Looking ahead, locals can anticipate a wintry mix with highs in the upper 30s on Sunday, followed by mostly cloudy conditions and temperatures edging up to the 40s on Monday. However, the dry spell is set to end by Tuesday, as a clipper is expected to bring a mix of morning snow and afternoon rain to Lower Michigan. As residents prepare for more unpredictable weather, the NWS continues to underscore the danger of driving through floodwaters and urges the public to stay alert for updates, according to weather alerts.
