Is Detroit’s warm weather ending? Snow forecast, predictions
While Detroit residents have been experiencing warmer weather these past few days, meteorologists have forecasted a shift toward colder conditions and snowfall later this week, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Why It Matters
The upcoming shift toward snow and freezing rain may catch residents off guard after days of above-normal temperatures.
Additionally, winter weather can present health risks for vulnerable groups such as young children and senior citizens.
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What To Know
The NWS issued a winter weather advisory in effect for much of central and northern Michigan lasting until Wednesday.
This comes as temperatures in Detroit are expected to remain mild today, with a high of 44 degrees Fahrenheit, but will be followed by a colder high of 30 degrees on Tuesday, according to AccuWeather. The average on Monday is expected to reach 36 degrees, a 10.5 degree increase from the average temperature of 25.5 degrees. This represents a 41.18 percent increase from the historical average. A more substantial drop is expected by Wednesday when highs are forecast to reach only 32 degrees, bringing a 30 percent chance of snow and freezing rain.
The NWS Detroit reports that colder air will push in on Tuesday, leading to a “more substantial event of mixed precipitation” arriving late Wednesday into early Thursday. This system is expected to begin with snow before transitioning into freezing rain near Metro Detroit, potentially bringing light icing and hazardous travel conditions.
According to the NWS, many areas could see 3 to 6 inches of snow, while some may get as much as 7 inches.
What People Are Saying
National Weather Service Detroit office said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Monday: “Mild today with a cold front dropping through the region this evening. A rain snow mix is possible north of M-59, where minor snow accumulations of a half inch or less will be possible.”
NWS Detroit office said on X on Sunday: “A Wintry Mix is expected late Wednesday into Wednesday night with minor snow, sleet, and ice accumulations possible. There is still uncertainty regarding precipitation type transitions and accumulation potential. Plan ahead for potential winter weather Wednesday night.
What Happens Next
Colder air is expected to settle in following the midweek storm, with winds gusting up to 30 miles per hour. A more prolonged period of below-freezing temperatures may be on the way as February continues, potentially bringing additional snow events later in the month.
Detroit residents should prepare for changing conditions by monitoring forecasts and exercising caution if traveling later this week. The winter weather, while not extreme, could still bring hazardous roads and disruptions to daily activities.
