Michigan – A sharp, biting wind slices across metro Detroit this morning as temperatures hover near 9 degrees. Even brief steps outside feel punishing, with wind chills between –5° and 15° below zero sending a clear message that December’s cold snap has settled in.
According to the National Weather Service, the coldest period occurs this morning before slow improvement into the afternoon. Drivers will notice stiff northwest gusts pushing across open stretches of I-94, I-75, and the Lodge, making steering more difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. Pedestrians and commuters should limit time outside and dress in layers, as exposed skin cools rapidly in this air mass.
Light lake-effect snow banding remains possible along the Thumb shoreline in Huron and Sanilac Counties. Accumulations of 2–4 inches may occur if bands drift inland from Lake Huron. For now, most metro areas stay dry, though slick patches remain possible where cold pavement meets leftover moisture from last week’s system.
Meteorologists are now tracking a strong storm system expected to approach the Great Lakes late Thursday into Friday. Most precipitation looks to fall as rain, but strong winds may create travel challenges and could generate brief mixing in colder pockets north of Detroit. This early winter tease marks a developing pattern typical for the week before Christmas, when temperature swings and travel volumes both rise.
Five-Day Outlook
Monday: Chance of snow early. High 20; low 14.
Tuesday: Mostly cloudy. High 33; low 29.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. High 40; low 28.
Thursday: Rain likely. High 47; low 30.
Friday: Clearing, cold. High 30; low near 20.
