Severe Storms Expected Across the Midwest This Weekend

MARQUETTE, Mich. — A line of strong to severe storms is expected to develop this evening, with hazardous conditions forecasted for the region.

The storms, which could bring winds exceeding 60 mph, large hail, heavy rainfall, and an isolated tornado risk, are anticipated to move through the Upper Peninsula after 6 p.m. and continue northward by midnight. A First Alert Weather advisory is currently in effect for the area.

According to the latest reports, the storm system is predicted to weaken as it approaches due to fading energy around sunset. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the TV6 First Alert Weather App.

A temporary lull in severe weather is expected until Friday morning, with scattered showers returning later in the day and persisting into Saturday. Total rainfall amounts could reach half an inch, and stronger storms may yield up to an inch of rain.

Forecasts indicate that colder air will move into the region for the weekend. Highs today are expected to be in the mid to upper 70s inland and low 70s along the shorelines. On Friday, temperatures will drop to the low to mid 70s inland and mid to upper 60s near the lakes.

In Cincinnati, Thursday and Friday are designated as First Alert Weather Days due to an elevated risk of severe storms, including damaging winds, large hail, flooding rain, and potential tornado activity. The Storm Prediction Center has classified the area under a slight risk (level 2/5) for severe storms on Thursday, which increases to an enhanced risk (3/5) on Friday.

Specifically, parts of Owen County, Kentucky, along with Ripley and Switzerland Counties in Indiana, are under a moderate risk (4/5) for severe conditions. Severe weather is likely Thursday evening into early Friday, with storms expected to hit the Cincinnati area between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

The weekend will see a return to seasonable temperatures in the 70s, with overnight lows in the 50s.

Meanwhile, in Cleveland, a complex of storms is projected to sweep through after midnight tonight, also bringing severe weather threats including strong winds, heavy rain, and potential hail. Residents are advised to have a plan in place for severe weather warnings during the night.

Friday is set to be warm and humid, with highs reaching into the low to mid 80s, perhaps making it the warmest day of the year. However, another set of storms is forecast for late Friday evening, which may further disrupt the weekend’s weather.