Winter storm warning expanded to include most Metro Detroit counties Wednesday

3-8 inches of snow accumulation possible

4Warn Weather – A winter storm warning initially affecting three Metro Detroit counties on Wednesday has expanded to include most of the region due to a snowstorm.

A winter storm warning is in effect through the night of Wednesday, Jan. 25 for the majority of Southeast Michigan due to a winter storm moving through the area. About 3-8 inches of snowfall is possible, with heavier snowfall expect in the more south and east areas of the region.

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The winter storm warning has been issued for Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties until 10 p.m. Sanilac and St. Clair counties are under a winter storm warning until midnight Wednesday.

In order for a winter storm warning to be issued, the National Weather Service says a “significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent.” Those conditions include a combination of the following:

  • 5 inches or more of snow and/or sleet within a 12-hour period, or 7 inches or more of snow and/or sleet within a 24-hour period; and/or
  • Enough ice accumulation to cause damage to trees or power lines; and/or
  • A life threatening or damaging combination of snow and/or ice accumulation with wind.

Genesee, Lapeer and Livingston counties are under a winter weather advisory 10 p.m.

Read more: Metro Detroit counties under winter storm warning: How it’s different from a watch, advisory

The bulk of the snowfall is expected to occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and will begin clearing up in the evening.

According to 4Warn Meteorologist Ashlee Baracy: The majority of Metro Detroit will see 4-5 inches of snow accumulation, with areas downriver possibly pushing 6 inches during a 12-14 hour period of snowfall. Those south of I-94 could top out closer to 5-6 inches.

The full forecast: Significant snow arrives Wednesday in Metro Detroit: See expected snow totals here


About the Author:

Cassidy Johncox is a senior digital news editor covering stories across the spectrum, with a special focus on politics and community issues.