METRO DETROIT (WWJ) - September 1st ushered in the start of meteorological autumn, but summer is making sure to leave its mark as Metro Detroit experiences what could be the hottest temperatures on record over the next few days.
While some Michiganders busted out their flannel long sleeves and kept their hands warm on pumpkin spice lattes when temperatures struggled to get into the 70s this week, meteorologists hint that you're not going to want to stow away your shorts and t-shirts just yet.
According to the National Weather Service, a heat wave expanding across much of the United States is set to move into Michigan -- and record-breaking highs along with it.
"High pressure ensures dry weather while building a round of mid-summer heat through the Labor Day holiday weekend," meteorologists with the NWS Detroit station said. "Breezy southwest wind develops Saturday to help carry in heat and moderate humidity for Sunday and Monday."
Just how hot? Temperatures will begin soaring on Sunday with AccuWeather forecasting highs to reach 92°. Monday will be humid and even hotter with highs expected to reach 94°.
If they do, AccuWeather said it would shatter the local record of 92° set back in 2018. RealFeel temperatures — which are determined by various environmental factors, such as actual temperature, humidity, wind, and sun exposure — will be a few degrees shy of 100.
August slipped away without setting any heat records, but there is one it did break — six tornadoes in a single day, with four in Wayne County, when a severe weather outbreak slammed Southeast Michigan on Aug. 24.
A seventh tornado was also confirmed by NWS that touched down in Ingham County before tracking over into neighboring Livingston County during the same severe storm event.
The astronomical start of Autumn is still a few weeks away, ushered in by the Autumnal Equinox on Sept. 22 at 9:04 p.m. Eastern time. Meteorologists say that warmer temperatures could still cling on for awhile longer.
Experts warned those out enjoying the weekend, especially those attending kickoffs for college football openers, to be mindful of health concerns that the intense heat can bring.
For fans, players and tailgaters, hydration will be critical.
"In addition, electrolyte losses will be substantial for the athletes, making it imperative to continually replenish them in an effort to ward off cramping," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Joe Lundberg said.
State officials have offered the following tips for Michiganders experiencing extreme heat:
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
• Drink plenty of fluids and replace salts and minerals in your body. Anyone on a fluid-restricted diet or who has a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. People with epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease should also consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
• Closely monitor a local radio station, TV station or NOAA Weather Radio for the latest information.
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
• Spend time in air-conditioned places. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spend some time each day in an air-conditioned environment such as public libraries, shopping malls or other indoor public spaces.
• Stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.
• Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Hot, heavy meals add heat to your body. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
