Michigan starts the day under a hard winter edge. Streetlights glow through mist and light snow, while wind cuts across exposed skin. Temperatures sit near 20 degrees in the Detroit metro early this morning, but the real story is what follows.
Snow mixes with freezing rain at times today, especially before midday. Even light amounts matter. Wet pavement can turn icy fast, particularly on bridges and ramps along I-75, I-94, and I-96. Plan extra travel time through the morning and early afternoon. Conditions may deteriorate quickly where untreated roads remain cold.
By afternoon, precipitation tapers. Skies try to clear, but colder air rushes in behind it. Northwest winds strengthen, gusting over 30 mph, pulling temperatures down sharply. By tonight, readings fall into the single digits, setting the stage for dangerous wind chills.
A Cold Weather Advisory takes effect late tonight and lasts into Saturday. Wind chills could drop as low as 15 below zero, cold enough to cause frostbite in under 30 minutes. Limit time outdoors, cover exposed skin, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Pets should stay inside.
Saturday brings sunshine, but it offers little warmth. Highs struggle near 16 degrees, and the wind keeps it feeling much colder. Any melting from today refreezes, raising the risk of flash freezing on roads and sidewalks after dark.
Sunday remains cold and mostly cloudy, with highs near 22 degrees. Winter holds firm through the weekend, though winds ease slightly.
Relief appears early next week. Monday inches closer to 28 degrees, and Tuesday climbs into the mid-30s. A broader warming trend builds beyond midweek, with signs of above-normal temperatures returning later next week across southeast Michigan.
For now, winter demands respect. Drive cautiously, dress in layers, and prepare for rapidly changing road conditions. How cold did it feel where you are this morning?
Five-Day Outlook (Detroit Area)
- Saturday: Sunny, bitterly cold. High 16°F.
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy. High 22°F.
- Monday: Mostly cloudy. High 28°F.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny. High 36°F.
- Wednesday: Chance of snow. High 35°F.
