This post summarizes and expands on a press conference happening today in Lansing that addresses the growing impact of climate change–driven extreme weather in Michigan, including the May 2025 tornado outbreak that prompted an emergency declaration.
It also covers local developments such as the seasonal closure of the Albert El Fresco placemaking space in East Lansing and the day’s weather forecast, while offering context and practical guidance for residents and municipal leaders.
Why Lansing’s Extreme Weather Emergency Tour Matters
The press conference in Lansing is part of a larger national campaign visiting Arizona, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Georgia to raise awareness about the increasing frequency and severity of weather extremes.
Speakers will include Lansing Mayor Andy Schor, regional climate experts, and residents who have firsthand experience with recent storms—bringing policy, science, and lived experience together.
Highlighting the May 2025 tornado outbreak—which led to an emergency declaration—organizers aim to connect that event to broader climate trends and to trigger practical planning at the municipal level.
What to Expect at Today’s Event
The press conference is scheduled for noon at Lansing City Hall.
Attendees can expect statements from local officials, scientific briefings on how climate change is altering storm patterns, and personal accounts from residents affected by severe weather.
Local Impacts: Albert El Fresco and Community Life
On a more local and immediate note, East Lansing’s seasonal outdoor space Albert El Fresco—located on Albert Ave. between Grove St. and M.A.C. Ave.—is closing for the season.
The closure allows Albert Ave. to reopen to vehicle traffic starting today and marks the end of this year’s placemaking effort to create outdoor seating and community space during the summer months.
Placemaking projects like Albert El Fresco are valuable for community cohesion and economic vitality, but they must be managed alongside public safety and transportation needs.
Weather extremes can change how public spaces are used and maintained.
Today’s Weather and What It Means for Residents
Today’s forecast calls for a weak cold front moving through the region with scattered showers and thunderstorms, partly cloudy periods, and temperatures near 89°F.
Expect muggy conditions and southwest winds with gusts into the low 20s (mph), which can make storms more unpredictable and rapid in onset.
For residents, even a “weak” front can produce localized flooding, downed branches, and sudden gusts that complicate outdoor events and traffic.
Practical Steps for Individuals and Communities
Drawing on three decades of experience working with municipal leaders and emergency managers, I recommend these practical actions to reduce risk and improve response:
Events like the Lansing press conference are critical opportunities to convert awareness into action.
By combining community voices, elected leaders, and sound science, Michigan communities can better anticipate extremes and protect vulnerable residents.
Here is the source article for this story: Happening Today: severe weather conference, and Albert Ave. reopening