Metro Detroit woke up today to mostly clear skies and a mild 66°F at the morning observation, but the quiet stretch will be short-lived. Today acts as a breezy warm-up before a slow-moving system rolls in with steady rain and embedded thunderstorms tonight until tomorrow. The heaviest and most persistent rain is expected tomorrow until tomorrow night, boosting the risk of ponding on city streets and higher river levels in some valleys.
Friday: Windy, Mild Before The Rain
Highs are expected to reach the lower 70s today with a steady west-southwest breeze that turns gusty during the afternoon. Look for sustained winds around 10 to 17 mph, with gusts near 30 mph on exposed routes and along shoreline areas. Secure loose patio furniture, trash bins, and anything else that might take flight, and be ready for blustery conditions on bridges and elevated roadways.
Saturday's Washout
Rain and a chance of thunderstorms are likely Saturday, with highs stuck in the upper 60s and steady precipitation throughout the day. New rainfall totals of roughly a half to three-quarters of an inch are possible on Saturday, with overall amounts around a half-inch to an inch by tomorrow night, enough to nudge some rivers higher, especially across the Saginaw Valley. These details are from the NWS Detroit/Pontiac.
Timing And Overnight Threat
A window for heavier showers and a few thunderstorms is most likely overnight into early Saturday, with rain chances ramping up around midnight and peaking during the pre-dawn hours. Tonight, lows will drop into the mid-40s, and gusty winds shifting with the front could cut visibility during heavier downpours. If you are out early Saturday, build in extra time for travel and expect ponding at low spots.
Travel And River Impacts
Drivers should prepare for slower travel and localized ponding on low-lying streets Saturday morning and avoid driving through standing water, since depth can be tricky to judge from behind the wheel. Check MDOT road conditions for real-time closures and updates before heading out, and give yourself a cushion for any trips. If you live along small streams or in the Saginaw Valley, keep an eye on water-level messages and be ready to move valuables off ground floors if needed.
Plan Ahead
Plan on rain gear and consider shifting outdoor events indoors where you can. Tie down light furniture and secure trash cans so they do not blow around. Mariners and shoreline visitors should follow marine forecasts and any small craft advisories, and everyone should keep tabs on local alerts through Saturday night as conditions evolve.
