Detroit, Mich. — A cold weather advisory covers all of southeast Michigan from Friday evening through noon Saturday, bringing dangerous wind chills and hazardous travel conditions along I-75, I-96, and I-69.
The National Weather Service in Detroit said northwest winds increase rapidly Friday evening, gusting between 30 and 40 mph as Arctic air pours into the region. Combined with falling temperatures, wind chills plunge to between 10 and 20 degrees below zero overnight, creating life-threatening conditions for anyone exposed for extended periods.
The strongest impacts develop along major corridors including I-75 from Detroit north through Pontiac and Flint, I-96 from Howell through Detroit, and I-69 near Lapeer and Port Huron. Gusty winds strip heat from road surfaces, increasing the risk of refreeze and isolated blowing snow even where snowfall has ended.
Communities affected include Detroit, Pontiac, Ann Arbor, Flint, Howell, Port Huron, Monroe, Adrian, and Saginaw. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, especially during the coldest overnight hours.
Some areas may experience brief blowing snow Friday evening, reducing visibility on open highways and rural stretches. Bridges and overpasses turn icy first as temperatures fall quickly into the teens.
The Michigan Department of Transportation urged motorists to limit unnecessary travel, dress for winter survival, and carry emergency supplies if driving overnight. Drivers should watch for sudden slick spots and be alert for stalled vehicles in the extreme cold.
Winds slowly diminish Saturday morning, but bitter cold lingers through midday before modest improvement arrives during the afternoon. Wind chills remain below zero into Saturday morning, prolonging the risk to anyone outdoors.
Officials advised residents to check on elderly neighbors, bring pets indoors, and ensure adequate heating during this prolonged cold snap. The advisory expires Saturday afternoon, ending one of the coldest periods of the season for southeast Michigan.
