Weather Hazards in Michigan as Spring Approaches | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett wants to keep your home or business safe this spring!

In terms of total land area, the United States is second only to Russia and Canada (though China is larger if all outlying US territories are excluded). It’s a very large and diverse country.

Because of its sheer vastness, seasonal weather does not follow a one-size-fits-all pattern across the whole country. Throughout the year, distinct regions of the country experience a variety of diverse weather patterns, resulting in a range of weather threats.

With the arrival of spring, warm and cold air masses collide throughout the nation, resulting in extreme weather occurrences. Let’s take a look at what we may expect in various parts of the nation, as well as what we should keep in mind here in Michigan.

Severe rain drenches the Pacific Northwest in the spring, which may result in flooding and water damage to homes. At higher elevations, snow will continue to fall, and the ensuing melting and runoff will create its own concerns.

The Upper Midwest, including Michigan, and all through the Northeast have the longest winters (as you’re surely aware), with frigid weather lasting throughout the season. Michigan has also seen an increase in rain and snowfall in recent years.

The frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation are projected to continue to rise, potentially increasing the frequency and intensity of floods throughout spring. Extreme cold and the threat of snowstorms and blizzards may be expected as far northeast as Maine all the way over to the Dakotas until late spring or early summer, when temperatures begin to rise again.

The southern West Coast, on the other hand, will experience the opposite, with severe heat waves possibly risking lives and property. Additionally, tsunamis caused by tectonic activity can be expected throughout the South Pacific, including Hawaii.

Windstorms, derechos and the risk of wildfires will be major threats across the heartland, from Iowa to Texas. When the winds are high and the weather is dry, wildfires may spread quickly. Accordingly, Tornado Alley, which has a high tornado frequency, is included in this zone.

Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in landlocked areas, as well as catastrophic rip currents and hurricanes on the coast late into spring, are all possible in the Southeast region.

Extreme weather poses a significant risk to everybody in the United States, regardless of location. Yours may be different from that of a relative a few states away, but being prepared is always a smart idea.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.