Michigan wakes under a sharp winter grip, with bitter cold settling across the Detroit area before sunrise. The air feels cutting, and even short walks sting exposed skin.
Early temperatures sit near 8 degrees, with some neighborhoods dropping closer to 3 degrees. Wind chills hover below zero at times, making the cold feel even harsher. Roads remain mostly dry, but lingering ice patches are possible on untreated side streets, bridges, and ramps. Drivers should stay cautious during the early commute.
As daylight strengthens, conditions slowly improve. Sunshine filters through thin clouds, allowing temperatures to recover into the low 20s by afternoon. It feels better than dawn, but winter remains firmly in control. Salt-treated roads improve, though shaded areas may stay slick.
The real change begins Tuesday, when a noticeable thaw arrives. Highs climb near 40 degrees, a dramatic jump for early February. Snowbanks soften, and melting begins along curbs and parking lots. To be fair, this thaw brings its own risks. Meltwater can refreeze quickly after sunset, creating slick spots by evening.
Attention turns to Wednesday, when temperatures cool back into the low 30s. Clouds increase, and winter settles into a more typical February pattern. While no significant snow is expected midweek, light snow or mixed precipitation remains possible later in the extended outlook.
By Thursday, highs hover near 30 degrees, keeping conditions cold but manageable. Roads may cycle between wet and icy during overnight hours, especially where daytime melting occurs.
Looking ahead into the 6–10 day window, a broader warming trend develops across the Midwest. The Great Lakes remain heavily frozen, but above-normal temperatures are favored into late week. That thaw may reduce ice coverage slowly, though winter is far from finished.
Five-Day Outlook (Detroit / Hamtramck)
- Today: Partly sunny, high 24°F
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high 40°F
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high 32°F
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high 30°F
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 32°F
