Detroit, Michigan – Southeast Michigan is heading into a sharp midweek weather shift as mild, breezy conditions give way to snow showers and an influx of Arctic air that will send temperatures plunging by Wednesday night.
Tuesday remains relatively mild across the Detroit metro, with scattered light rain showers and breezy conditions. Highs are expected to reach the upper 30s to lower 40s before colder air begins moving in later today. While rain impacts remain minor, changing conditions signal a more impactful weather pattern arriving Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac, a strong cold front will sweep through the region Wednesday, ushering in Arctic air and transitioning rain showers to snow. Snow showers are expected to develop Wednesday afternoon and continue into Wednesday night as temperatures fall steadily.
Most areas across metro Detroit, including Dearborn, Troy, Livonia, and Warren, are expected to see around one inch of snow. Higher amounts are possible farther northeast toward the Thumb, where localized totals could reach 3 to 4 inches. While snowfall amounts are not extreme, timing and falling temperatures increase the risk for slick roads.
Wednesday evening and overnight will bring the most noticeable impacts. Temperatures are expected to drop into the teens, with brisk winds creating wind chills near or below zero by early Thursday morning. Any moisture on roadways may freeze quickly, leading to icy patches on bridges and overpasses.
The Wednesday evening commute may be affected by snow showers and rapidly changing road conditions. Drivers should plan for reduced visibility at times and allow extra travel time.
Cold air will remain locked in through Thursday and Friday, with highs struggling to climb out of the 20s. Wind chills will remain bitter during the morning hours, posing risks for prolonged outdoor exposure.
Residents are urged to prepare for winter driving conditions, dress in layers, and monitor updates as snow coverage and wind impacts become clearer. While this is not expected to be a major snowstorm, the combination of snow, wind, and Arctic cold will make it feel like winter has fully returned to southeast Michigan.
