We’re starting to see the first signs of spring here in Michigan.

And while some aspects haven’t been all that welcome recently, one thing most people are always looking forward to is the blooming of our state’s beautiful wildflowers.

To get you ready for your upcoming spring nature walks, The ’Gander’s Chaunie Brusie is bringing us her guide to the state’s wildflowers, from when they bloom and where to find them, to the invasive ones that you should remove if you get the chance.

Plus: A look at historical tornadoes across the state.

Blue Cross Blue Shield and Michigan Medicine in contract dispute (Michigan Advance): Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Michigan Medicine are locked in a contract dispute that could leave some patients out of network starting July 1, 2026. Both companies say they’re committed to reaching an agreement by June 30.

More severe weather headed to Michigan (Freep): Forecasters warn more severe weather could hit Michigan Tuesday evening, including heavy rain, damaging winds, and a chance of tornadoes. The alert comes days after deadly tornadoes killed four people in the state and prompted a state of emergency.

Anzalone says goodbye to Lions (WOOD-TV): Alex Anzalone is leaving the Detroit Lions after five seasons, signing a two-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The former defensive captain thanked Detroit fans in a message Monday, calling the move “bittersweet.”

Purple wildflowers with a bee visitor in the spring. (Dustin Thurston/Unsplash)

By Chaunie Brusie

The moment those first tantalizing warm moments of weather happen here in Michigan, we all change. Almost instantly, we feel a shift. There’s a little more spring in our steps, a little more hope in the air that finally, finally, the bitter cold of winter is lifting.

Those of us who are lifelong Michiganders know our first tastes of spring may not be lasting (we’re all bracing for that late snowstorm we know will come), but it is a sign that the finish line is in sight. And what better way to celebrate when the warm weather finally sticks around for good than planning to hit the trails to spot some Michigan wildflowers in bloom?

Here’s our guide on where to find them and what to know about the plants.

Random tidbits worth clicking on…

The MRCC Tornado Tracks tool lets you see where tornadoes have struck in Michigan throughout the years. That’s a lot of tornadoes! (Purdue/Screenshot)

🌪️ The recent weather has gotten me curious about where tornadoes have hit the state in past years. Luckily, I found this map that tracks tornadoes that have touched down across Michigan and the rest of the US, from 1950 to 2024. It even lets you filter by magnitude.

⚠️ While we’re on the topic of severe weather, are you signed up for your local emergency alerts? Get real-time updates from your community on everything from weather to active violence, and more.

💬 Our parent company, COURIER, is hosting a live virtual event on Thursday. MAHA & the Midterms will break down how recent political choices are shaping health care access, affordability, and what families should know moving forward.

🪲 Ending on a lighter note, check out this Michigander’s bug photo, which is in the running for a global wildlife photography contest.

Do you have a cool picture, observation, or comment you’d like to share? Send it here.

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a feature story from Chaunie Brusie. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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