Detroit, Michigan – A warmer-than-normal and wetter weather pattern is expected to develop across Michigan heading into Valentine’s Day weekend, increasing the risk for rain, wet snow, and slushy travel conditions from Saturday through midweek. While no single high-impact winter storm is currently signaled, repeated rounds of precipitation could create cumulative impacts on roads, rivers, and daily travel statewide.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Michigan is favored for above-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures during the February 14–18 period. This setup limits prolonged Arctic cold and shifts precipitation toward rain or wet snow, particularly in southern and lower-elevation areas.
In Southeast Michigan, including Detroit, Ann Arbor, and the I-94 corridor, milder daytime temperatures may allow precipitation to fall mainly as rain. Overnight cooling could still lead to periods of wet snow or slush, raising the risk for slick conditions during early morning travel on bridges, ramps, and secondary roads.
Across West Michigan, including Grand Rapids, Holland, and Muskegon, repeated rounds of moisture could lead to periods of rain mixed with wet snow. Slushy road conditions are possible along I-96 and US-131, especially during nighttime and early morning hours.
Northern Lower Michigan and parts of the Upper Peninsula may remain cold enough at times for more snow, but warmer air intrusions increase the likelihood of heavier, moisture-laden snowfall rather than dry powder. Additional precipitation falling on existing snowpack could increase runoff into rivers and streams.
Air travel through Detroit Metropolitan Airport and Gerald R. Ford International Airport may see occasional delays during periods of low ceilings or steadier precipitation, though widespread disruptions are not expected. Utility providers are monitoring conditions but report no elevated concerns for ice-related outages at this time.
This warmer, wetter pattern is expected to persist into midweek. Additional advisories may be issued as individual systems become clearer, and residents are urged to stay alert for updated alerts, particularly during overnight travel windows when conditions can change quickly.
