Mid-Michigan Morning Update: Heat Wave, Holiday Travel, Gas Prices & More
Here's what's making headlines across Michigan as we head into the busy Independence Day holiday week.
Tragic Earthquakes in Venezuela
The death toll continues to rise following last week's devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, with more than 1,700 people confirmed dead. Rescue crews continue searching for survivors as tens of thousands of people remain unaccounted for.
In response to the disaster, the Trump administration announced it is increasing U.S. humanitarian aid to more than $300 million to assist with relief and recovery efforts.
Michigan Gas Prices Climb Again
If you've filled up lately, you've probably noticed prices creeping higher.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Michigan is now $4.10, an increase of 9 cents from last week.
While prices are still lower than they were a month ago, they're significantly higher than this time last year.
Drivers looking for the best deals will generally find the lowest average prices in:
- Marquette
- Traverse City
- Flint
Good News for Holiday Travelers
Planning a Fourth of July road trip?
The Michigan Department of Transportation is making travel a little easier by temporarily lifting lane restrictions on 106 of the state's 177 road construction projects.
The restrictions will be removed beginning Thursday and remain lifted until 6 a.m. Monday to help keep traffic moving during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.
AAA estimates more than 2.6 million Michiganders will travel at least 50 miles from home for the holiday.
Even with fewer construction delays, drivers should still expect heavy traffic, especially near popular vacation destinations and major highways.
Cooling Centers Open Across Mid-Michigan
With dangerous heat settling into the region, cooling centers are available throughout Mid-Michigan for anyone needing relief from the high temperatures.
Bay City
- Riverside Activity Center
- Canteen Activity Center
Midland
- Trailside Senior Center
- Midland Open Door
Saginaw
- Fashion Square Mall
- Hoyt Library
Additional cooling center locations can be found by visiting Michigan211.org.
Tigers Stay Hot
The Detroit Tigers kept the momentum rolling with a 7-3 victory over the New York Yankees.
Meanwhile, the Great Lakes Loons head to Fort Wayne to begin a five-game series against the TinCaps.
Heat Wave Continues
The biggest story this week remains the weather.
An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect as temperatures continue to soar across Mid-Michigan.
Forecast
- Today: Sunny and dangerously hot with a high near 96°. Heat index values could reach 110°.
- Tonight: Clear and warm with a low around 76°.
- Wednesday: Sunny with a high near 97°. Heat index values up to 107°.
- Thursday: More sunshine and continued heat with a high around 96°.
If you'll be spending time outdoors, drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and have a safe Fourth of July week!
