Dangerous cold conditions are expected to continue across Southeast Michigan through the end of the week, with the coldest wind chills arriving during the Thursday and Friday morning hours.
According to the National Weather Service office in Detroit/Pontiac, wind chills of 10 to 15 degrees below zero are expected Thursday morning, followed by even colder conditions Friday morning, when wind chills may drop to 15 to 20 degrees below zero in parts of the region. These values meet criteria for dangerous cold exposure, especially during early morning travel.
Communities including Detroit, Pontiac, Ann Arbor, Flint, Monroe, and Port Huron are forecast to experience the harshest wind chills during the pre-dawn and morning commute hours. Major travel corridors such as I-75, I-94, I-96, US-23, and I-69 may be impacted as drivers and pedestrians are exposed to extreme cold for even short periods of time.
While daytime wind chills are expected to moderate slightly, generally ranging from near zero to 5 degrees above zero, conditions will remain cold enough to pose risks for anyone spending extended time outdoors. Frostbite can develop on exposed skin in 30 minutes or less under these conditions.
The National Weather Service advises residents to cover all exposed skin, limit time outdoors, and dress in multiple layers, including hats and gloves. Those commuting early in the morning should ensure vehicles are winter-ready and carry emergency supplies in case of breakdowns. Families and neighbors are encouraged to check on elderly individuals and others who may be vulnerable to the cold, and pets should be brought indoors.
Cold conditions are expected to gradually ease later Friday, though winter weather will persist across Southeast Michigan. Residents should continue monitoring forecast updates as additional advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.
