GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — A strong southwest wind Friday afternoon could provide much-needed relief of wildfire smoke in West Michigan.
As of Friday morning, Grand Rapids reported “very unhealthy” air quality, which is a minor improvement from Thursday. The air quality alert has been extended to continue through Saturday.
Events canceled across West Michigan due to poor air quality
The change in pattern comes with the passage of a warm front pulling winds from the southwest. This will favor wildfire smoke moving northeast improving air quality across West Michigan.
Clear skies may only be temporary, though. A cold front will quickly follow Saturday afternoon turning winds back to the northwest. Due to out-of-control Canadian wildfires, the smoke will likely be pulled back into the region as soon as Saturday evening. The cold front will also bring a chance for more showers and thunderstorms.
While a steady rain can improve air quality by mixing the pollutants down to the surface, the rain will not be heavy enough to see vast improvement. There is a chance for a strong thunderstorm. A marginal risk (level 1 of 5) is in place for several counties across West Michigan with the greatest threat of severe weather staying southwest.
A few gusty winds may be included in isolated storms. The best chance for storms will be between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Stay with Storm Team 8 for the latest on the smoke and storms all weekend long…