Metro Detroit could see wind gusts up to 30 mph Monday

Metro Detroiters should prepare for high winds and what may finally feel like December temperatures to start the week.

Wind gusts are expected to reach more than 30 mph Monday, bolstered by a cold front making its way through the region by late morning and early afternoon.

The National Weather Service said it’s likely some areas will see scattered snow showers in addition to the gusts.

“Typically, when our forecast says it will be windy, we’re looking at 20 to 30 miles per hour, so yes, this will be windy,” said Dave Gurney, a meteorologist with the weather service. “We aren’t issuing an advisory for the broader region, though, because we expect to be short of the higher speeds for that.”

Utility companies are preparing for the high winds. Consumers Energy said gusts up to 50 mph could cause power outages.

The company is preparing teams and “is ready to respond,” the utility said in a release Sunday, particularly where storms are expected to be strongest, along Lake Michigan and on the western side of the state.

“Over 180 crews are being staged in advance,” the release said. “The storm is expected to deliver the most serious impact along the Lake Michigan shore and in West Michigan, though winds are expected to continue until Monday evening and affect communities elsewhere.”

The company reminded consumers to charge electronic devices and have an emergency kit with extra batteries and blankets ready.

The cold front that will bring wind to Metro Detroit will also bring lower temperatures, Gurney said. Monday will likely start in the 30s and end in the 20-degree range, he said, including wind chills in the low 20s. Tuesday will also be cold, with expected wind chills hovering near 10 degees, the National Weather Service’s Detroit office said in a social media post.