Residents of southeast Michigan are bracing for additional winter weather as colder temperatures and more snowfall are anticipated this weekend. Following a significant snow event earlier this week that impacted Metro Detroit, the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for several counties, including Mason, Lake Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon, and Ottawa, effective until 7 a.m. Saturday. Accumulations in these areas may reach between 3 to 7 inches.
The region saw clear skies on Thursday, but snow plow operators were working diligently to clear the roadways of over 6 inches that had already fallen in some locations. Forecasters predict that these areas could see an additional 3 inches on Friday, while other counties such as Kent, Allegan, and Van Buren are under a Winter Weather Statement with expected snow amounts of 2 to 5 inches.
Lake effect snow is also expected to hit counties including Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee, with accumulations of 3 to 6 inches likely along the M-22 corridor. The recent snowfall led to widespread disruptions, resulting in the closure of numerous schools, including the Detroit Public Schools Community District and Birmingham Public Schools, amid concerns for safety on the roads.
In a concerning development, the Michigan Department of Transportation recorded at least 44 crashes on Metro Detroit highways in just 24 hours due to the snowy conditions, while Michigan State Police reported responding to 106 accidents throughout the area.
Anti-icing measures were in place as snowplow drivers across Macomb and Oakland counties worked to clear major roads, though dangerously low temperatures hindered the effectiveness of salt treatments. The Wayne County Roads Division had over 30 snow plows actively treating the roads on Thursday afternoon.
The inclement weather prompted Detroit’s Chief Public Health Officer to declare a cold-weather health emergency, leading to the activation of an overnight shelter to assist residents in need of warmth. The city has partnered with local organizations to make available over 1,700 emergency shelter beds for those experiencing housing crises.
Moving into the weekend, weather conditions are expected to worsen with the arrival of an Arctic air mass forecasted to bring dangerously cold wind chills, particularly overnight into early next week. With further snow on the horizon and frigid conditions lingering, drivers should exercise caution on roadways as visibility may be reduced due to accumulating snow.
For those in need, the city provides a Housing Resource HelpLine at (866) 313-2520 for emergencies, while recreation centers and library branches are also listed as designated respite locations.
The weather forecast for the coming days indicates a high of 34 degrees on Friday, dropping to a low of 5 by Monday. With additional snowfall predicted throughout the weekend, residents are advised to stay updated and prepare for potentially hazardous travel conditions.
As these winter storms continue to impact southeast Michigan, community resources are being mobilized to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, highlighting the importance of collective support in the face of severe weather.