GRAND RAPIDS (June 30, 2014) — The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) with their afternoon update has elevated our lakeshore counties in to a “moderate” risk for severe weather. Specifically, it includes portions of Ottawa, Allegan, Van Buren, Cass, and all of Berrien County.
The primary threat from these storms would be strong, damaging straight line winds at 70 mph or greater. Hail one inch in diameter or greater is also possible. The best time frame for storms here in West Michigan is likely AFTER 9:00 PM through the early/mid overnight hours.
In addition to the above lakeshore counties, the remainder of the area is under a slight risk for severe weather development with damaging winds as the primary threat as well. To a lesser degree, heavy rain and nuisance flooding with rainfall rates of one to two inches per hour possible.
We also cannot rule the possibility of a tornado or two, but the biggest threat is damaging straight line winds as a cluster or line of storms are expected to move in to and through the area. The Grand Rapids National Weather Service says “storm development confidence is high” and “severe weather development is moderate.” It is possible that we just experience strong storms across the area, but keep in mind many of the necessary ingredients for severe thunderstorm development are in place (moisture/lift/instability). The only good news is that these storms will be arriving during a period of negative heating (at night), so we could be spared.
Don’t forget there is also an increased swim risk in Lake Michigan through Tuesday due to large waves.
Make sure to stay up on the forecast and local FOX 17 radar at www.fox17online.com/weather.
