Detroit, Michigan – Drivers across Metro Detroit have a narrow window to prepare before snow sweeps onto I-94 and I-75 by 9 p.m. Tuesday, creating slick pavement and visibility drops during the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac, snow will move into the Tri-Cities around 7 p.m., reach Flint near 8 p.m., and spread into Detroit around 9 p.m. The system will produce a concentrated three-hour burst capable of dropping 1 to 2 inches before tapering shortly after midnight. Southwest wind gusts between 20 and 30 mph will reduce visibility at times, especially on elevated roadways.
Statewide, the quick-moving system will impact much of Lower Michigan before midnight, with totals generally ranging from 1 to 2 inches. The heaviest bursts may briefly coat I-69 near Flint, US-23 in Livingston County, and stretches of I-96 west of Oakland County.
Closer to Detroit, roads including I-275, M-59, I-696, and the Southfield Freeway could turn slushy within minutes of heavier snowfall. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first as temperatures hover near the freezing mark. Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties face the greatest travel disruptions between 9 p.m. and midnight.
Drivers should slow down, allow extra braking distance, and avoid sudden lane changes. MDOT crews are expected to monitor conditions, but rapid snowfall rates could outpace treatment during peak bursts. Charge mobile devices and check traffic apps before departure.
Snow exits southeast Michigan shortly after midnight Tuesday night, but scattered snow showers may linger into the Wednesday morning commute. Additional advisories could be issued if visibility drops below safe travel thresholds.
