Detroit, MI – Michigan is facing an active and wintry weather pattern from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing below-normal temperatures across northern portions of the state and near-normal temperatures across the south. When paired with above-normal precipitation statewide, the pattern favors snow, lake-effect bursts, and mixed precipitation, especially as travelers head toward Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, northern Michigan—including the Upper Peninsula, Traverse City, Petoskey, Marquette, and Sault Ste. Marie—sits firmly in the below-normal temperature zone, supporting consistent snowfall throughout the period. Lake-effect snow is likely at times, particularly from December 20–23, with moderate accumulations possible along Lakes Superior and Michigan.
The central Lower Peninsula, including Grand Rapids, Lansing, Mount Pleasant, and Kalamazoo, may see a mix of system snow and lake-effect enhancement, especially in westerly flow. Temperatures near freezing could introduce brief sleet or freezing drizzle, most likely from December 19–21, before colder air deepens later in the week.
Southern Michigan, including Detroit, Ann Arbor, Monroe, Flint, and Jackson, falls within the near-normal temperature zone. This region may see snow-to-rain transitions early in the period, followed by the potential for wet snow or icy mix as colder air arrives December 22–24.
Major travel routes—including I-75, I-94, I-96, U.S. 131, and the Mackinac Bridge corridor—may experience slick roads, reduced visibility, and delays, especially between December 21 and Christmas Eve when impacts appear strongest.
