The perceived temperatures will rise to over 30 degrees today

Warm afternoon temperatures combined with oppressive humidity will create feels like temperatures above 95 degrees across much of Lower Michigan today, before strong to severe storms are possible later this evening and overnight.

Monday will be the last overly warm day of the week, and tomorrow temperatures and humidity will drop. Highs will be above 30 degrees, but dew points will be below 25 degrees. Whenever dew points are above 15 degrees, it starts to feel uncomfortable. When they reach 21 degrees, it’s downright oppressive. Our bodies can’t cool down naturally, making it feel hotter than it actually is outside.

One factor that could dampen the chances of reaching such high heat indexes today is cloud cover. Morning rain showers have left a thick cloud cover over much of the state since Monday morning. If the clouds take longer to clear, temperatures will be slightly lower than if they clear quickly. Current satellite trends indicate that areas in the western half of the Lower Peninsula should clear by midday, allowing for higher temperatures before clouds and precipitation arrive this evening. Much of Lower Michigan should be mostly sunny through the early afternoon.

As always, with hot temperatures and high humidity, extensive outdoor activities are not recommended. If you work outside, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. More pleasant temperatures are expected on Wednesday.