Metro Detroit is preparing for a high-impact storm system that will move across the region late Sunday through Monday, prompting the 4Warn Weather Team to issue a 4Warn Weather Alert for Monday.
The storm will bring widespread rain, strong to potentially damaging winds, rapidly falling temperatures, snow squalls and a risk of flash freezing, creating impacts on roads, air travel and the power infrastructure across Southeast Michigan.
Rain Sunday, brief icing possible early
Rain develops late Saturday night into Sunday morning. For some northern communities, particularly north of M-59, there may be a brief window of freezing rain early Sunday, which could cause isolated slick spots on untreated roads and bridges. Temperatures rise quickly after sunrise, allowing precipitation to change to all rain.
Rain becomes widespread Sunday afternoon and evening. Many locations will receive 1 to 1.5 inches of rain, with localized totals near 2 inches possible. Minor flooding in poor drainage or low-lying areas may occur, but widespread river flooding is not expected.
Sunday evening will be the warmest part of the storm, with temperatures rising into the 50s, setting the stage for a sharp weather change overnight.
Strong winds and flash-freeze threat Monday
The most significant impacts arrive late Sunday night into Monday as a powerful arctic cold front sweeps through Southeast Michigan.
A High Wind Watch is in effect for Monday. West to southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts reaching 50 to 60 mph are possible. These winds could down tree limbs and power lines, resulting in scattered power outages, and make travel hazardous — especially for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans and SUVs. Be sure to have fresh batteries and a flashlight available.
Temperatures will drop rapidly Monday morning, falling more than 20 degrees in just a few hours. With roads wet from Sunday’s rain, this creates a high risk of flash freezing, particularly during the Monday morning commute.
Snow showers and brief snow squalls are also possible throughout the day Monday. While snowfall totals will be low — ranging from a dusting to 1 to 2 inches — squalls may cause sudden reductions in visibility and rapidly deteriorating road conditions.
Wind chills Monday will fall into the teens and single digits, adding to the danger for anyone outdoors.
Travel impacts
Drivers should be prepared for strong crosswinds, icy roads and rapidly changing visibility on Monday. Airline travelers may encounter delays due to strong winds and reduced visibility. On the Great Lakes, hazardous marine conditions are expected with gale-force winds and very high waves.
Cold weather continues into New Year’s
Cold conditions linger into the holiday week.
- Wednesday (New Year’s Eve): Mostly cloudy and cold, with highs in the upper-20s to near 30 degrees. A few light snow showers are possible.
- Thursday (New Year’s Day): Continued cold, with highs in the lower- to mid-20s and a chance of light snow.
Anyone with travel plans Sunday or Monday is encouraged to monitor the 4Warn Weather forecasts closely and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.
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