Bitter cold will intensify across Metro Detroit Saturday night, setting the stage for one of the coldest stretches so far this winter. Arctic air continues to flow into Southeast Michigan, with temperatures dropping sharply after sunset. Overnight lows fall to around zero to 5 degrees for much of Metro Detroit, with a chance of subzero readings in the Thumb. Persistent westerly and northwesterly winds will push wind chills down to 10 to 15 degrees below zero by late Saturday night into early Sunday morning, making the cold conditions dangerous for anyone outdoors for extended periods. Frostbite can occur in as little as 30 minutes when wind chills drop to -15 degrees.
Sunday
Sunday remains frigid despite some sunshine. Afternoon highs struggle to reach the upper-teens to lower-20s in Metro Detroit, while parts of the Thumb stay colder. Wind chills will remain in the single digits and occasionally below zero, especially during the morning hours. Winds will be out of the northwest at 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Scattered flurries are possible, and lake-effect snow showers may develop along the eastern Thumb shoreline, where localized accumulations of 1 to 2 inches are possible. Elsewhere, any snow amounts will be minimal, but even light snow combined with bitter cold can lead to slick spots on untreated roads and sidewalks.
Monday
The cold pattern holds into Monday as another weak disturbance moves through the region. Highs remain near 20 degrees, with a low chance for light snow, mainly during the morning and afternoon. Little to no accumulation is expected.
Looking ahead
A noticeable change arrives midweek. Temperatures begin to moderate Tuesday, climbing back into the lower-30s in Metro Detroit, while the Thumb remains a few degrees cooler. By Wednesday and Thursday, highs rise into the upper-30s and 40s across much of Southeast Michigan, with rain becoming more likely as warmer air moves in. The Thumb will still trend milder but may stay slightly cooler than areas closer to Detroit, especially during the overnight hours.
Protecting yourself, family and property from the cold
The extreme cold this weekend brings real lifestyle impacts. Children waiting at bus stops or playing outside should be bundled in layers, including hats, gloves, scarves, and face coverings. Parents should limit outdoor playtime and ensure kids warm up frequently indoors. Children are particularly vulnerable because they lose body heat faster. They may also not recognize early warning signs. Pets should be brought inside, as the cold is dangerous for animals, especially overnight. Those who must be outdoors should cover all exposed skin and take frequent breaks to warm up.
Homeowners should also take precautions. With temperatures near or below zero, pipes in colder areas of the home are at increased risk of freezing. Letting faucets drip slightly and opening cabinet doors under sinks can help circulate warmer air. If icy sidewalks or driveways develop, standard rock salt becomes less effective in extreme cold. For temperatures below 15 degrees, calcium chloride or magnesium chloride ice melt products work best and act faster, making them a safer choice during this Arctic blast.
The forecast shows bitter cold dominating through Monday, followed by a steady warmup Tuesday through Thursday. While the return to milder air will be welcome, the immediate focus remains on staying safe through the dangerous cold Saturday night and Sunday, especially for children, seniors, pets, and anyone spending time outdoors.
Will you be outdoors? Share your weather photos with the 4Warn Weather team at MIPics.