(WWJ) Keep some cool water handy, and find a shady spot. Forecasters say the sweltering heat and extreme high humidity will stick around for the weekend in metro Detroit.
Thunderstorms and associated cloud cover could keep temperatures in check for a bit on Friday, according to the National Weather Service, with the high only getting up to around 85 degrees.
However, forecasters say, as temperatures increase, the heat index is expected to reach the mid and upper 90s each day this weekend in Southeast Michigan — and possibly around 100 degrees Saturday afternoon.
Something else to keep in mind: AccuWeather Meteorologist Matt Benz says showers and thunderstorms are a possibility Friday, Saturday and Sunday in metro Detroit. It's not yet clear if these storms will turn severe in metro Detroit.
Imploring Michigan residents and visitors to take steps to stay safe, State Police note that thunderstorms could cause more power outages, compounding any danger from the heat.
“The high heat and humidity can put stress on the body, making it dangerous to be outdoors for any significant amount of time,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of EMHSD. He added: "The potential for thunderstorms and power outages this week could leave residents without air conditioning and even more susceptible to heat-related illness.”
It's important in weather like this to keep a close eye on children and pets; make sure they have plenty of water and come inside for a break from the heat. It's also a good idea to check on elderly family members or neighbors, as they are more susceptible to illness and even death from excessive heat.
[MORE HEAT SAFETY TIPS HERE]
Remember: Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911.
Saturday will also be the fourth Ozone Action Day of the year in Southeast Michigan.
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy meteorologists say high temperatures and wind patterns will push high ozone concentrations into the region, affecting air quality.
On days like this, officials ask that local governments, businesses, and the public do what they can to voluntarily lower pollutant emissions.
Breathing high concentrations of ozone can cause a variety of health problems, particularly for the elderly, children, and people with asthma or other respiratory issues.
"With this ongoing heat wave compounded by air quality issues, we encourage everyone to take care this weekend," said Amy O'Leary, Executive Director of SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments. "By taking a few precautions and minimizing emissions, we are protecting our most vulnerable populations."
Here are some suggestions that Southeast Michigan residents can follow to help keep the air clean:
- Delay mowing your lawn until evening or the next day. Exhaust from your lawn mower and other gas-powered lawn and garden equipment help form ozone.
- Drive less, telecommute, bike, or walk. You'll reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, as well as save money. Learn more about Southeast Michigan Commuter Connect.
- Avoid refueling your vehicle during daylight hours. Fumes released at the gas pump contribute to ozone formation.
- Delay or combine errands. This will reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.
- Reduce electricity use. Adjust your thermostat a few degrees higher and turn off lights, computers, and other electrical devices when not in use.
Many of the ozone actions listed above are good ideas to practice every day of the week. Learn more routine actions that can also help reduce pollution and save money by reducing fuel consumption HERE.
Looking ahead, Benz said metro Detroit will see slightly more comfortable temperatures as we head into next week.
Calling it a cool-down, however, will be a stretch until around Wednesday, when temps are forecasted to drop down into the mid-70s...possibly staying there all week.
Here is the AccuWeather 10-day forecast for Detroit:
For the latest updates, keep your radio tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 for traffic and weather, every 10 minutes on the 8s. Want to listen to WWJ on your phone or tablet? Download the FREE Audacy app.
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