Detroit, MI – Arctic air will remain firmly entrenched over the Great Lakes region through mid-December, setting the stage for bitter cold temperatures and renewed snow chances across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ohio, according to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s 8–14 Day Outlook, issued December 1.
Forecasters expect below-normal temperatures from December 9 through December 15, with daytime highs in the 20s and 30s and overnight lows plunging into the teens — and single digits in northern areas. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan and northern Wisconsin will be the coldest zones, with wind chills dipping below zero at times.
NOAA’s outlook also calls for above-normal precipitation, signaling a likely return of lake-effect snow off Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Erie. Cleveland, Milwaukee, and Traverse City may each see fresh snow accumulation midweek, while inland areas stay cold and breezy.
In contrast, the western and southern U.S. — including California, Texas, and the Southwest — will experience above-average warmth and dry weather, highlighting a strong east-west temperature split.
Forecasters say the Arctic pattern over the Great Lakes will likely hold firm through mid-month before slight moderation closer to the holidays, though more cold air could return to close out December.
