GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Days after deadly storms swept through West Michigan, the area is preparing for another possible round of severe weather.
Storm Team 8 is tracking an area of low pressure that will head east from the central Plains and run into a very moist environment. Wednesday will be one of the most humid days of the year and the storms will feed off of the humidity.
As a result, several rounds of showers and thunderstorms are possible Wednesday morning through Thursday midday.
Grand Haven Department of Public Safety Director Jeff Hawke is warning residents that damage from Friday’s deadly storms could create additional dangers when the storms move through the area. Hawke said Wednesday that large broke branches caught in other trees and leaning, damaged trees could pose a threat.
>>Inside woodtv.com: Storm Team 8 Forecast | West Michigan weather alerts | Radar
TIMING:
Wednesday morning: Most storms will just produce heavy rain and occasional lighting. Severe weather is possible but not likely.
Wednesday midday and early afternoon: Partial clearing of the skies that will lead to a return to sunshine that will destabilize the atmosphere. This prospect is key. The more sunshine we receive, therefore more heat, the greater the chance of of receiving severe weather. Very humid conditions will lead to heat index readings between 90 to 95 degrees.
Wednesday late afternoon and evening: Once the partial clearing occurs there could be a storm at any time. Any one of which could obtain severe levels. The more likely time-frame for severe weather will be this evening and overnight as the cold front gets closer with stronger lift.
The storms Wednesday morning could be severe but not likely. Again the greater threat for severe weather will be Wednesday afternoon and night.
Straight-line wind gusts would be the primary threat, but severe storms could also pack heavy rains, hail larger than an inch in diameter and an isolated tornado.