Powerful thunderstorms approaching Midland

"LandepNews"
DETROIT, MI — The National Weather Service warns that a line of "strong thunderstorms" are rapidly approaching communities in Bay, Midland, Saginaw and Shiawassee counties.
According to a special weather statement issued at 3:35 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17, National Weather Service Doppler radar shows the line of thunderstorms running north to south from near Clare to just north of Lansing.
The storms are capable of producing "winds up to 60 mph" and "heavy downpours," according to the statement from the NWS.
"Gust winds may causes branches to be blown down and loose objects  to blow around," the statement reads. "Seek shelter in a sturdy structure until these storms have passed."
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Bay, Saginaw and Midland counties until 5:15 p.m.
The storm system itself is approaching the area at about 65 mph, according to the NWS.
According to the NWS, the thunderstorms are expected to hit Coleman at 4:10 p.m., Sanford by 4:15 p.m., Midland by 4:20 p.m., Auburn by 4:30 p.m., Brant at 4:30 p.m., St. Charles at 4:35 p.m. and Swan Creek and the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge at about 4:40 p.m.
A tornado watch remains in effect for 45 Michigan counties, including Bay, Saginaw and Midland until 8 p.m. The storms will include high winds and heavy downpours and could spawn powerful, long-lasting tornadoes and hail storms, according to predictions.
Hazardous weather, including very high winds, is expected to continue through Sunday afternoon and evening in the area. Meteorologists expect high winds to continue into Monday.
Check out this online NWS preparedness guide to get ready for tornadoes and other severe weather.

Source:http://www.mlive.com