Detroit, MI – A cold, snowy pattern is expected across Michigan from Nov. 29th through Dec. 5th, bringing widespread accumulating snow, lake-effect bands, and the first true winter conditions of the season.
According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, temperatures will trend below normal statewide, including Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Flint, and the Upper Peninsula. Highs in the 20s and low 30s and overnight lows in the teens will support accumulating snow with each passing system.
NOAA’s precipitation outlook also shows a strong above-normal precipitation signal, indicating several storm systems may cross the Great Lakes region. Detroit and southeast Michigan are likely to see multiple rounds of system snow, with totals dependent on storm timing and track.
West and northwest Lower Michigan — including Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Holland, Traverse City, and Cadillac — face the strongest lake-effect potential, with long-duration bands possibly setting up early in the week. Travel along US-131, M-37, and I-96 may be impacted by rapidly changing conditions.
The Upper Peninsula — including Marquette, Houghton, Sault Ste. Marie, and Ironwood — is positioned for the heaviest snow, with both system snow and lake-effect combining for potentially significant accumulations.
Southern Michigan — including Ann Arbor, Jackson, Battle Creek, and Kalamazoo — is expected to see several rounds of light to moderate snow, with some commutes affected by slick roads and reduced visibility.
Forecasters stress this is not one major blizzard, but a multi-system winter pattern, capable of producing accumulating snow, hazardous travel, and lake-effect bursts throughout the week.
As December begins, Michigan residents should prepare for the most winter-like stretch of the season so far.
