Warm Fall Weather Brings Near-Record Temps to Thumb & Southeast Michigan

Unseasonably warm air sweeps through Michigan, flirting with record highs. Cooler temperatures and gusty winds are on the way by midweek.

DETROIT — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:04 AM on October 21, 2024.

Michigan Basks in Unseasonable Heat Before Midweek Cooldown

Southeast Michigan will enjoy temperatures hovering near record highs today and tomorrow, with daytime highs potentially reaching the low 80s. However, residents should prepare for a noticeable drop in temperatures midweek as a cold front moves through, according to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service.

Monday and Tuesday: Highs Near 80 with Sunshine

Warm southwesterly winds will dominate Southeast Michigan, carrying mild air into the region. With plenty of sunshine expected, temperatures today could challenge historical records:

• Detroit: Forecast high near 80°F (Record: 81°F set in 2007)
• Flint: Forecast high near 82°F (Record: 83°F set in 1953)
• Saginaw: Forecast high near 83°F (Record: 85°F set in 1953)

While Tuesday’s highs will also climb well into the 70s, breaking records might prove tougher. Current records for October 22 are 81°F in Detroit (1920), 80°F in Flint (1979), and 80°F in Saginaw (1979).

Cold Front to Bring Showers and Cooler Air by Wednesday

As an upper-level trough sweeps across the Great Lakes Tuesday night, cooler air will push in, bringing gustier winds and light showers. The cold front is expected to pass through Southeast Michigan on Wednesday, but moisture levels may be insufficient for widespread rain, leaving the chance of only a few sprinkles or virga—precipitation that evaporates before reaching the ground.

By Thursday morning, temperatures aloft are forecasted to drop close to freezing, signaling a significant cool down. Despite this brief chill, temperatures should rebound quickly before another northern wave approaches on Friday.

Boating Conditions Remain Calm Until Midweek Front Arrives

Boaters along Lake Huron and other Great Lakes waters will enjoy calm conditions through Tuesday, with light south-southwesterly winds and stable weather. However, the cold front arriving Wednesday could trigger Small Craft Advisory conditions with gusty winds over nearshore zones, especially in northern Lake Huron. Though the likelihood remains low, forecasters caution that gale-force gusts could occur during the frontal passage.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast – Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the National Weather Service. Please look for updates to this report from local news channels or NOAA All Hazards radio.
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