Detroit, Michigan – Dangerous cold is expected to settle over Southeast Michigan late Friday night into Saturday morning, with wind chill values dropping into the minus teens and as low as 20 degrees below zero in some areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac, Arctic air combined with gusty northwest winds will drive the coldest conditions overnight Friday through early Saturday. The most severe wind chills are expected around daybreak Saturday before gradually improving later in the day.
Forecast wind chill values are expected to range from -14 to -20 degrees across much of the region, including areas along I-75 through Detroit and Pontiac, I-94 near Ann Arbor and Port Huron, and I-69 around Flint. Strong northwest winds exceeding 20 mph late Friday night will accelerate heat loss and significantly increase cold exposure risks.
Actual air temperatures are forecast to fall near or just below zero Friday night and early Saturday. While wind chills should recover into the -10 to 0 degree range by Saturday afternoon as winds weaken, cold conditions will remain in place through the weekend.
The National Weather Service warns that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions. Residents are urged to wear layered clothing, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors during the coldest period.
Motorists traveling along major routes such as Interstate 75, Interstate 94, US-23, M-59, and I-69 should be prepared for extreme cold in the event of breakdowns or delays. Emergency winter supplies are recommended.
This cold snap may particularly affect early-morning commuters, outdoor workers, students, and overnight shift employees, as the lowest wind chills coincide with overnight and morning hours.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and follow guidance from the National Weather Service as dangerously cold conditions peak Saturday morning.
