Metro Detroit braces for warmest weather in weeks with increased fire risk

Tuesday, Wednesday highs in mid-80s

Southeast Michigan's heat will be coupled with air quality concerns and the arrival of storms. (WDIV)

4Warn Weather – The warm weather has returned.

This is the warmest Southeast Michigan has been since mid-May, and it is going to get hotter. The heat will be coupled with air quality concerns and the arrival of storms.

Southeast Michigan's heat will be coupled with air quality concerns and the arrival of storms. (WDIV)

Smoke, haze, and high fire danger: What you need to know

You may have noticed the hazy skies that have been hanging over the region in recent days.

Wildfire smoke is expected to drift back into Southeast Michigan, and it’s anticipated to thicken on Tuesday and Wednesday.

While air quality issues have not reached critical levels, the air could worsen as the smoke becomes more dense.

The smoke will create colorful sunsets and sunrises due to the scattering of sunlight by smoke particles.

Southeast Michigan has its own fire risk. The heat and dry air will make it easier for dead leaves, grass, and twigs to dry out, which raises the risk of grass fires across the area.

Both Tuesday and Wednesday carry a high to very high risk for outdoor fires.

Use extra caution or avoid lighting fires and grilling until conditions improve, especially if you live near dry vegetation or wooded areas.

Midweek storms expected to bring relief

There is a change in sight. The Exact Track 4D radar shows that a frontal system is forecast to arrive on Wednesday afternoon or evening, bringing rain—and possibly some thunderstorms.

Some of these storms could be strong or even severe. If you are planning outdoor activities, keep an eye on the sky and the 4Warn Weather app.

A few thunderstorms could be strong or even severe late-Wednesday in Southeast Michigan. (WDIV)

The good news is that as rain moves in, it is expected to help clear out the smoke and bring the fire danger back down.

After highs in the mid- to upper-80s on Tuesday and Wednesday, Thursday’s highs are forecast to dip into the mid-70s, offering some welcome relief.

Detroit Metro Airport last reached 80 degrees or greater on May 16, when the temperature rose to 83 degrees.

Rain showers are forecast to linger into Thursday morning. More rain is likely on Friday.

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