Detroit, Michigan — Cold conditions will persist across southeast Michigan through the end of the week as light snow returns and gusty winds develop, potentially creating hazardous travel conditions, according to the National Weather Service Detroit/Pontiac.
Forecasters report isolated flurries early Wednesday, followed by continued cold weather through Thursday. Light snow is expected to return late Thursday, continuing into Friday, with general accumulations of 1 to 3 inches across much of the region. The bulk of the snowfall is expected to fall Friday morning, coinciding with peak travel hours in some areas.
Snowfall will affect major travel corridors including Interstate 75, Interstate 94, Interstate 96, and M-59, where snow-covered roads and reduced visibility may slow traffic. While snowfall totals are not extreme, cold pavement temperatures will allow snow to accumulate efficiently.
By Friday afternoon, temperatures are expected to reach or slightly exceed freezing, but this brief moderation comes with a tradeoff. Northwest winds gusting 30 to 40 mph are forecast by late Friday, driving colder air back into the region and creating areas of blowing snow, especially in open and rural locations.
As colder air settles in Friday night, wind chills are expected to drop to 10 to 15 degrees below zero by Saturday morning, making conditions dangerous for prolonged outdoor exposure. Despite sunshine Saturday, highs will struggle to reach the low to mid-teens, reinforcing the bitter feel.
Communities including Detroit, Pontiac, Ann Arbor, Flint, and surrounding suburbs should prepare for changing road conditions, particularly from Thursday night through Friday evening. Bridges and overpasses will be especially prone to slick spots.
For commuters, delivery drivers, and outdoor workers, Friday presents the highest-impact period due to the combination of snow, wind, and falling temperatures. Residents are urged to monitor updates at weather.gov/dtx and allow extra travel time as conditions evolve.
