Severe Thunderstorms Threaten Washtenaw County

Warnings issued for high winds and potential damage

Apr. 4, 2026 at 7:06pm

The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement for Washtenaw, Wayne, Lenawee, and Monroe counties in Michigan, warning of strong thunderstorms capable of producing winds in excess of 40 mph. The storms are expected to move northeast at 55 mph, potentially knocking down tree limbs and blowing around unsecured objects.

Why it matters

Severe thunderstorms can cause significant property damage and pose a threat to public safety. This weather event is particularly concerning given the high wind speeds and rapid movement of the storms, which could lead to widespread power outages and hazardous driving conditions across multiple counties.

The details

According to the weather alert, Doppler radar detected strong thunderstorms along a line extending from near Saline to near Britton to near Ottawa Lake. The storms are moving northeast at 55 mph and have the potential to produce winds in excess of 40 mph, which could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. The affected area includes several major cities and towns, including Taylor, Romulus, Monroe, Flat Rock, Saline, Milan, Dundee, and Trenton.

  • The Special Weather Statement is in effect from 3:06 PM EDT to 4:00 PM EDT on April 4, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for issuing weather alerts and forecasts for the United States.

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What’s next

Residents in the affected counties should take shelter, secure any loose outdoor items, and avoid unnecessary travel until the storms have passed.

The takeaway

This severe weather event serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions, especially during the spring and summer months when thunderstorms are more common. Staying informed and taking appropriate safety precautions can help minimize the impact of these types of storms.