Michigan’s Hot Year Continues: 30+ Above Average Summer Days

To the shock of no one, it has been a blistering summer. The first official day of summer, June 20th, was followed by a stretch of record-breaking heat, with highs exceeding 90 degrees and heat indices over 100°F. Although it has cooled down somewhat since then, most days this summer have still seen above-average heat. Kent County and other regions around the state have drought conditions.

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All this being said, Michigan prepares for yet another heat wave this week, with WOODtv reporting triple-digit heat indices. Before it arrives, let’s break down this year’s extreme heat.

What is a Heat Wave?

A heat wave is a period of temperatures above 90°F that lasts for at least a day, but usually several days or weeks. Currently, Wednesday through Friday are predicted to be in the lower to mid-90s, with a heat index pushing the "feels-like" temperatures over 100°F. This heat wave won't break any records, but it will add to an already very hot year.

**All temperature information comes from NOAA.**

How Hot Has Michigan Been So Far

Since March 1, Michigan has seen many days with above-average spring temperatures. March saw multiple days in 70s, well above the 41°F average. April saw near-record-breaking highs towards the end of the month, with temperatures reaching the 80s. May was more traditional; however, there were 10 days above the average, and three reached the 80s.

This summer has been sweltering. Only halfway through the season, Grand Rapids has seen over half of its days exceed the season average, with multiple dates far exceeding the average. While these last few days have been pleasant, it's a calm before the storm, as our temperatures are expected to skyrocket over the next few days.

If you need spots to escape the heat, we have a list available here.