Detroit, Michigan — The National Weather Service has expanded the Winter Weather Advisory to include more communities in Southeast Michigan, as the region experiences its first significant snowfall of the season.
The advisory now covers Macomb, St. Clair, and Sanilac counties and remains in effect until 4 a.m. Monday. Residents across these areas are being urged to use caution as lake-effect snow showers and gusty winds impact travel and visibility overnight.
Snow Bands Forming from Lake Huron Winds
Strong northerly winds sweeping across Lake Huron are creating snow bands that will affect communities downwind of the lake.
These winds are expected to gust over 25 mph, producing blowing snow and reducing visibility at times. Under the advisory, total snow accumulations are projected to reach two to four inches in localized areas.
Outside the advisory zone, Metro Detroit could still receive a dusting to an inch of snow by Monday morning. Even minor accumulations, combined with freezing wet roads, could result in slick and hazardous travel conditions during the morning commute.
Cold Temperatures and Wind Chills to Continue
Drivers and residents are advised to plan for extra travel time and dress appropriately for the cold. Wind chills in the teens will make it feel significantly colder than the actual air temperature.
Overnight temperatures are expected to dip into the lower to mid-20s, with Detroit staying a few degrees warmer but still feeling frigid.
Residents are urged to salt sidewalks and bundle up children heading out Monday morning, as this marks the first real taste of winter weather this season.
What to Expect for Monday and Beyond
Monday will remain cold throughout the day, with highs only reaching the lower to mid-30s. However, the area will see gradual clearing by the afternoon, providing some relief after the overnight snow.
Looking ahead to Tuesday — Veterans Day — forecasters expect mostly cloudy skies and highs in the upper-30s, followed by a gradual warm-up into the 40s and 50s by mid- to late week.
Snowfall Totals Across the Region
Reports from Sunday morning indicate varying snowfall totals across Southeast Michigan as the first snow of the season arrived. The highest accumulation was recorded in Temperance (Monroe County), with over two inches. Other areas reported lighter amounts:
- Temperance (Monroe Co.) — 2.3 inches
- Clinton (Lenawee Co.) — 1.6 inches
- Ann Arbor (Washtenaw Co.) — 1.5 inches
- Lapeer (Lapeer Co.) — 1.5 inches
- Grand Blanc (Genesee Co.) — 1.1 inches
- Romulus/DTW (Wayne Co.) — 1.2 inches
- Saline (Washtenaw Co.) — 1.2 inches
- Manchester (Washtenaw Co.) — 1.0 inch
These early-season totals serve as a reminder that winter weather hazards are back in the forecast, and residents should stay alert for future advisories or warnings.
Safety Tips for the First Winter Commute
Authorities are urging drivers to slow down, maintain extra distance between vehicles, and check road conditions before leaving home. With icy patches expected on untreated roads and bridges, early-morning commuters may experience slippery travel through parts of Macomb, St. Clair, and Sanilac counties.
Residents are also encouraged to keep emergency kits in their vehicles and ensure their windshield wipers and defrosters are functioning properly.
What Do You Think?
Are you experiencing the first snow in your neighborhood? How are road conditions and temperatures where you are? Share your experiences and tips for staying safe during the first winter blast of the season in the comments below!
