UNDATED (WHTC-AM/FM) — Torrential rain, wind gusting to 50 to 60 mph and severe thunderstorms are headed to West Michigan and beyond, according to the National Weather Service, which issued thunderstorm watch until 1 a.m. for Allegan, Ottawa, Muskegon, and these other counties: Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Arenac, Bay, Benzie, Charlevoix, Clare, Clinton, Crawford, Genesee, Gladwin, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Huron, Ionia, Iosco, Isabella, Kalkaska, Kent, Lake, Lapeer, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Midland, Missaukee, Montcalm, Montmorency, Newaygo, Oceana, Ogemaw, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Roscommon, Saginaw, Sanilac, Shiawassee, St. Clair, Tuscola, and Wexford.
Safety precautions include moving to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.
People should anticipate damage to roofs, siding, and trees — and avoid driving unless absolutely imperative, in which case extra caution is advised.
Rainfall rates could top an inch per hour, according to NWS. In areas experiencing repeated storms, rain rates could reach 4 inches an hour.
The beach hazards advisory is extended through Wednesday.
