Severe Storms Threaten Southeast Michigan on Tuesday

Tornado, hail, and flooding risks expected as storms move through the region overnight.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:56am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, with a small farmhouse dwarfed by the massive, swirling storm clouds above, conveying the sublime power of nature.The impending severe storms threaten to overwhelm the small structures below, a reminder of nature's raw power and the need for vigilance in the face of extreme weather.Today in Detroit

The National Weather Service has issued a severe weather alert for southeast Michigan, including the Detroit metro area, with the greatest threat expected Tuesday night. Forecasters warn of the potential for damaging wind gusts, large hail, isolated tornadoes, and heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flooding as storms move through the region.

Why it matters

Severe thunderstorms can cause significant property damage, power outages, and even loss of life. The Detroit area has experienced its share of extreme weather events in recent years, so residents will need to closely monitor the forecast and be prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued.

The details

According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac, the main threat window will be after 8 p.m. Tuesday, with storms continuing into the overnight hours. Possible hazards include damaging wind gusts of 60 mph or greater, large hail over one inch in diameter, and isolated tornadoes. Heavy rainfall may also lead to localized flooding in some areas.

  • The severe weather risk is expected to increase throughout the day on Tuesday, with the greatest threat window after 8 p.m.
  • Storms are forecast to continue into the overnight hours on Tuesday night.

The players

National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac

The local office of the National Weather Service that serves southeast Michigan, responsible for issuing weather forecasts and warnings for the region.

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What they’re saying

“Officials advise residents to have multiple ways to receive warnings and remain alert as conditions evolve, especially during the evening and nighttime hours.”

— National Weather Service

What’s next

Residents should continue to monitor the weather forecast and be prepared to take shelter if severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued for their area.

The takeaway

The threat of severe storms, including the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes, underscores the importance of being weather-aware and having an emergency plan in place, especially for those in the Detroit metro area.