by Detroit, Michigan – Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan are bracing for a prolonged stretch of bitter cold, as a strong cold front moves through the region. Meteorologists warn that subzero wind chills, light snow, and dangerously low temperatures will make outdoor activity hazardous through the weekend.
Light Snow Possible Late Friday Night
As the cold front pushes through, residents can expect a chance of light snow late Friday evening into overnight hours, primarily after midnight. Snowfall amounts are forecasted to remain light, ranging from a trace up to half an inch.
Even minor accumulations, however, could create slick spots on untreated roads, sidewalks, bridges, and overpasses, particularly during the overnight and early morning hours. Motorists are urged to exercise caution, especially if traveling before sunrise.
Frigid Temperatures and Gusty Winds
Following the front, temperatures will plummet into the single digits and teens Friday night, with gusty west to northwest winds of 20–30 mph driving wind chills even lower. Sustained winds of 5–15 mph will make conditions feel much colder than the actual air temperature.
By daybreak Saturday, wind chills are expected to drop into the single digits and below zero in many communities. The coldest conditions will arrive Saturday night into Sunday morning, when wind chills could reach 5 to 15 degrees below zero across Southeast Michigan.
Saturday and Sunday: Blustery and Relentlessly Cold
Saturday will remain cloudy and blustery, with temperatures struggling to climb out of the teens. Persistent winds will keep wind chills below zero, particularly in the morning and late evening hours.
Sunday offers little relief, with high temperatures only reaching the upper teens to lower 20s, meaning the dangerous cold will persist all day. Residents are advised to plan for the harsh conditions and avoid prolonged exposure outdoors.
Health Risks and Safety Precautions
The combination of bitter wind chills and prolonged exposure poses a serious risk to health. Meteorologists note that at wind chill values near 10 degrees below zero, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
Residents are urged to take the following precautions:
- Dress in layers, including hats, gloves, and scarves to cover exposed skin
- Limit outdoor activities, especially for children, older adults, and those with medical conditions
- Bring pets indoors and ensure outdoor animals have adequate shelter and unfrozen water
- Keep emergency supplies in vehicles, including blankets, particularly for overnight or early morning travel
Looking Ahead: Warm-Up Next Week
Despite the frigid conditions, meteorologists say a dramatic warm-up is expected early next week. Temperatures will gradually rebound by Tuesday and Wednesday, climbing toward and above 40 degrees.
As milder air returns, the likelihood of rain increases by midweek, signaling a temporary break from the cold grip. Until then, residents are advised to take the extreme cold seriously, stay weather-aware, and plan accordingly for the weekend.
How are you preparing for Metro Detroit’s subzero wind chills this weekend? Comment below with your tips for staying warm, safe winter driving strategies, or ways your family and pets are coping with the extreme cold.
