FLINT, MI — A south-moving outflow boundary pushed across Michigan’s Thumb region Wednesday night, bringing the potential for wind gusts over 40 mph. Caseville recorded a 53 mph gust at 9:09 PM as the boundary moved through. The boundary may not have any rain associated with it, meaning strong winds could arrive with little warning. Residents from the Thumb south toward Flint and Sarnia were advised to expect a few minutes of gusty winds over the following hour.
Caseville Records a 53 MPH Gust
The strongest reported gust came from Caseville, along the shore of Saginaw Bay, where winds reached 53 mph at 9:09 PM. That gust was produced as the outflow boundary pushed south out of storms over Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay.
Gusts of that strength can knock down tree limbs and blow around loose outdoor items. Sudden wind bursts can also catch drivers off guard on open roads.
Boundary Moves South Toward Flint and Sarnia
As of 9:38 PM, the outflow boundary was moving south across the Thumb region. Its projected path pointed toward the Flint area, areas west of Flint, and toward Sarnia along the St. Clair River.
The affected area stretched from near Saginaw Bay east across the Thumb and south toward the Flint and Sarnia line. Gusty winds were expected to last only a few minutes in any one location.
Outflow Boundaries Can Bring Wind Without Rain
Outflow boundaries form when cool air rushes out from thunderstorms and spreads along the ground. That rush of air can produce strong gusts well away from the storms themselves.
This boundary may not have had any rain with it, making it hard to spot on standard mosaic radar. On professional radar, it appeared as a thin light blue-green line moving south.
Storms Over Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay Drove the Winds
Radar showed thunderstorms with lightning over northern Saginaw Bay and Lake Huron at the time. Several warning areas were outlined over the lake waters near the Thumb.
These storms were the source of the outflow boundary pushing south over land. Areas farther south, including Lansing, Rochester Hills, and Detroit, were not in the immediate path at the time.
Residents Should Secure Loose Outdoor Items
Residents in the Thumb and areas near Flint and Sarnia should be prepared for brief but strong wind gusts. Securing patio furniture, trash bins, and other loose items can help prevent damage.
Drivers should stay alert for sudden crosswinds, especially in high-profile vehicles. Conditions should improve quickly once the boundary passes.
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