by Detroit, Michigan — Metro Detroit is bracing for another blast of winter cold this weekend as temperatures remain well below normal and dangerous wind chills sweep across Southeast Michigan. Forecasters warn that while only minor snow accumulations are expected, the combination of strong winds and Arctic air will make conditions feel especially harsh from Friday night through early next week.
After a brief warmup earlier this week, colder air has quickly reasserted itself, extending a stretch of below-average temperatures that has lingered since Nov. 27.
Cold stretch continues after brief warmup
Although temperatures briefly climbed closer to seasonal norms earlier this week, meteorologists say the relief was short-lived. The broader pattern remains locked in cold air, and the next several days will reinforce that trend.
Forecasters note that while there is some hope for temperatures to rise above average later next week, the near-term forecast suggests conditions will get colder before they improve.
This weekend’s cold will be accompanied by brisk winds, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and potentially dangerous during overnight and early morning hours.
Minimal snow expected, but cold will dominate
Southeast Michigan may see small chances of snow beginning Friday night and continuing through the weekend, but any accumulation is expected to be minimal.
Meteorologists project less than one inch of snow with each round of precipitation, meaning snowfall impacts will be limited. However, officials caution that even light snow combined with cold pavement could lead to isolated slick spots, particularly overnight.
The main concern is not snow, but the persistent cold and biting wind.
Weekend highs stuck in the low 20s
Daytime temperatures across Metro Detroit are expected to remain well below normal, with highs struggling to climb out of the low 20s both Saturday and Sunday.
On Saturday, west winds gusting up to 20 mph will push wind chill values down to around 10 degrees, making it feel significantly colder than actual air temperatures.
Conditions worsen slightly on Sunday, when winds shift to the west-northwest and continue gusting in the 20 mph range. Wind chills on Sunday afternoon are expected to feel closer to 5 degrees.
Bitter cold lingers into early next week
The cold air mass will not retreat immediately after the weekend. Monday’s forecast shows a high near 20 degrees, with wind chills reaching only about 6 degrees, despite slightly calmer winds.
Forecasters say the most uncomfortable conditions will occur overnight, when temperatures plunge into the single digits and low teens across the region.
Wind chill values during the overnight and early morning hours are expected to be especially harsh:
- Sunday morning: Wind chills near 10 below zero
- Monday morning: Wind chills around -4 degrees
- Tuesday morning: Wind chills near zero
These values increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone exposed to the cold without adequate protection.
Wind chill dangers during early morning hours
Meteorologists emphasize that the coldest and most hazardous time will be between late night and early morning, when both air temperatures and wind chills bottom out.
Exposed skin can become numb quickly under these conditions, and frostbite can develop in a short period of time, particularly on fingers, ears, and faces.
Residents heading to early shifts, waiting for public transportation, or warming vehicles outdoors are urged to dress in layers, wear gloves and hats, and limit time outside whenever possible.
Read Also: Arctic Air Grips Kentucky and Indiana, Frostbite Risk Through Sunday
Gradual warmup expected by midweek
There is some good news on the horizon. Forecast models indicate that temperatures will begin to moderate by the middle of next week, eventually rising above seasonal averages.
By midweek, highs are expected to reach the low to mid-40s, offering a noticeable break from the prolonged cold. However, the warming trend may also bring chances for rain, as milder air replaces the Arctic influence.
While this warmup could improve comfort levels, melting snow and fluctuating temperatures may introduce new concerns, such as wet roads and refreezing overnight.
What residents should keep in mind
With the cold persisting through the weekend and into early next week, officials urge residents to take precautions:
- Dress in warm layers and cover exposed skin
- Limit time outdoors, especially overnight and early mornings
- Check on elderly neighbors and vulnerable individuals
- Use space heaters safely and keep them away from flammable materials
- Ensure pets have adequate shelter from the cold
Drivers should also be aware that cold temperatures can affect vehicle batteries, and keeping emergency supplies in cars is recommended.
Stay alert as winter pattern continues
While snowfall amounts will remain light, the ongoing cold reinforces that winter has firmly settled into Metro Detroit. Meteorologists say temperature swings are common this time of year, but residents should be prepared for several more days of bitter cold before meaningful relief arrives.
Updated forecasts will continue to refine temperature trends as the warming pattern approaches later next week.
How cold did it feel where you are this morning, and are you ready for another frigid weekend? Share your experience in the comments below.
