High wind warning in effect Friday in Southeast Michigan

The National Weather Service in Detroit has issued a high wind warning for Friday in Southeast Michigan, which means it might be one of those days when your trash can explores the neighborhood and your hair achieves "experimental architecture."

The reason: a powerful Alberta Clipper storm system is charging through the Great Lakes, which will crank up the pressure difference between a deep low to the north and higher pressure to the south.

That steep pressure gradient works like the atmosphere stepping on the gas pedal, accelerating winds across the region. 

Add in a fast-moving jet stream overhead and some efficient mixing of stronger winds down to the surface, allowing the potential for southwest wind gusts as high as 50 to 55 mph. The NWS said in a special weather statement issued at 12:42 p.m. Friday that wind gusts were reaching in excess of 55 mph, including a gust of 71 mph observed in Ann Arbor.

Hold onto your hats — and maybe your patio furniture, too. 

Winds will begin to reduce overnight on Friday.