Detroit is waking up under a blanket of gray today, with temperatures stuck in the upper 30s to around 40°F and a northerly breeze that makes it feel a bit sharper than the numbers suggest. It is a classic gloomy start, with mostly cloudy skies hanging on through the morning commute.
Afternoon Shower Chance
The clouds are not going anywhere fast. Expect mostly cloudy skies with a high near 44°F and a chance of light rain after noon, followed by temperatures sliding back toward 40°F later in the afternoon. North-northeast winds around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts near 20 mph, will keep it feeling blustery for anyone with outdoor plans.
According to the National Weather Service Detroit/Pontiac, any rain today should stay on the lighter side, with new rainfall totals generally under a tenth of an inch. Think nuisance showers, not an all-day soaker.
Thursday Into The Weekend
Thursday tells a very different story. A warm front lifts through in the morning, bringing rain likely before 8 a.m., then periods of rain and a slight chance of thunderstorms between about 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., with highs jumping into the mid 60s. The taste of spring comes with some added punch.
South winds will pick up Thursday night to around 13 to 16 mph, with gusts up to roughly 29 mph. Forecasters note that a couple of strong to severe storms remain possible west of US 23, with damaging wind gusts the primary concern. For details on timing and locations with the highest risk, check the full forecast discussion from the National Weather Service Detroit/Pontiac.
Boaters and Lakeshore
Out on the water, conditions are no easier. Small Craft Advisories are in effect for near-shore Lake Huron through Thursday evening. Elevated waves in Saginaw Bay and along the shoreline will leave conditions choppy for smaller boats. If you have trips planned, it is a good idea to delay travel or take extra precautions until winds and waves ease later Thursday.
Plan Ahead
A compact rain jacket will come in handy if you are out after noon today, and it is smart to secure loose outdoor items before Thursday's stronger southerly gusts arrive. Drivers should be ready for wet roads during any downpours and some gusty crosswinds. If you have evening plans or boating on the schedule, keep an eye on updates from the National Weather Service as the warm front moves through.
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