Metro Detroit is preparing for a 4Warn Weather Alert this Friday as another snow event is projected for Southeast Michigan. This weather situation may affect travel plans throughout the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday weekend.
Snowfall Forecast for Metro Detroit
Snow is expected to begin Friday morning, with light accumulation possible by the early commute. Steadier snow is anticipated during the afternoon hours. The following details outline the expected snowfall:
- Most areas in Metro Detroit: 1 to 3 inches of snow
- Isolated totals in the Thumb: up to 4 inches
Though the snowfall amounts are moderate, the warning was issued due to the possibility of icy conditions. Existing snow from previous storms, combined with the forecasted light accumulation, may lead to hazardous travel situations.
Impact on Commutes
Friday’s snowfall could disrupt both morning and afternoon commutes. Snow showers may complicate travel plans, particularly as the conditions will vary throughout the day. Here’s what drivers can expect:
- Morning commute: Light snow may start early
- Afternoon commute: Broader snow coverage expected
Temperature Details
On Friday, temperatures will range across Southeast Michigan, with the following highlights:
- Morning temperatures: Teens with single-digit wind chills
- Afternoon highs in Metro Detroit: Lower 30s
- Colder temperatures in the Thumb: Upper 20s
The new layer of snow may create slushy conditions, especially closer to Detroit, before tapering off by 5 p.m. However, lingering snow showers can be expected into the evening.
Weekend Outlook
Travel concerns will persist through the weekend, coinciding with the kickoff of the Detroit Auto Show on Saturday, January 17, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday on Monday.
Saturday Forecast
- Highs in Metro Detroit: Upper 20s
- Highs in the Thumb: Lower to mid-20s
- Possible snow showers near northern suburbs
Sunday Forecast
- Highs near the lower 20s
- Potential for snow showers
- Wind chills may drop into single digits
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
The coldest air is anticipated late Sunday into Monday. On MLK Day, temperatures in Metro Detroit may only reach the teens, with some areas in the Thumb facing single-digit highs. Morning wind chills could plunge below zero, particularly in rural areas.
Travel Precautions
With potentially hazardous conditions expected, drivers should exercise caution on the roads. It is advisable to allow extra time for travels, stay alert for changing weather situations, and be particularly careful on untreated streets and sidewalks where ice may form.
We encourage residents to share their snowfall photos with El-Balad to capture the weather events affecting our community.
