DETROIT (WWJ) - Metro Detroiters heading out to work early Tuesday morning should mind the roads as the National Weather Service says flooding caused by overnight showers is possible.
A Flood Watch remains in effect for the northern suburbs, including Macomb, Oakland, Lapeer, Livingston, St. Clair, Genesee and Sanilac counties through 8 a.m. Tuesday.
Experts said a narrow band of heavy overnight rainstorms soaked portions of Southeast Michigan and to the north toward the Tri-Cities. Soil saturated from previous rainfall has led to excessive runoff which has the potential to flood rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.
The NWS initially said the heaviest rain would strike areas between I-96 and M-46 beginning Monday evening. During the overnight hours, the Flood Watch expanded to include Livingston, Oakland and Macomb Counties as rain began pouring down in cities further south.
Rainfall amounts of 1.5 to locally 2 inches were forecasted to fall in the hardest hit areas by sunrise Tuesday.
Drivers were warned to watch out for ponding on roadways during the morning commute as well as large puddles.
Monday's warmer temperatures gave way to the development of the overnight rain showers, but residents in Southeast Michigan will get a brief break on Tuesday before wet weather returns, AccuWeather Meteorologist Dean Devore said.
"It's damp this morning... and then it should get better here then as we get into the afternoon," DeVore added.
Highs will reach into the 50s for most of Tuesday before showers, with a rumble of thunder, return in the evening hours. Overnight lows into Wednesday will reach 47°.
Metro Detroit remains in the bull's eye for enhanced risk of severe weather on Wednesday afternoon, the NWS warned.
"A powerful low pressure system will send a strong cold front through SE Michigan," forecasted said. "The atmosphere will be favorable for significant severe weather including tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds."
Experts said residents should prepare now and stay tuned for updates on the impending storms.
Temperatures are expected to climb into the low 70s before chilling down to 41 degrees as the last of the heavy storms move through the area in the evening hours.
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