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Metro Detroit Braces for Potential Weekend Snowfall: A Detailed Forecast
Key Takeaways:
- Metro Detroit is expected to experience its first measurable snowfall of the season this weekend.
- The forecast is still uncertain, with potential for significant variations in snowfall amounts across different areas.
- Northwestern suburbs could see up to two inches of snow, while the east side might only experience a dusting.
- A wintry mix is possible before the snowfall, with rain potentially transitioning to snow as temperatures drop.
- Temperatures will decrease significantly, with bone-chilling wind chills expected by Monday morning.
- Lake effect snow bands could persist Monday through Tuesday.
Forecast Overview:
Metro Detroit residents should prepare for the possibility of snowfall this weekend, potentially marking the first measurable snow of the season. While the exact amount and distribution are still uncertain, current forecasts suggest varying impacts across the region. As of Friday morning, the forecast indicates a dusting of snow for the east side of Metro Detroit, while the northwestern suburbs could potentially see up to two inches of accumulation. Forecasters will be closely monitoring high-resolution data over the next 48 hours to refine the forecast and provide more precise estimates.
Factors Influencing Snowfall:
Several factors contribute to the uncertainty and potential variability in snowfall. The differences between the northern and southern areas of Southeast Michigan will be prominent. Initial rain, the path of the low-pressure system, and any melting of snow will all affect final accumulations. The type of precipitation expected might fluctuate between rain and snow, further complicating the forecast.
Timeline and Precipitation Type:
The most likely timeframe for accumulating snow is late Saturday night through Sunday. On Sunday morning, areas in the northwestern suburbs might see snow mixing with rain. In comparison, areas on the east side are more likely to experience rain. As temperatures fall near freezing Sunday evening, the probability of snow increases across much of Metro Detroit. This off-and-on snowfall could then persist into Monday and Tuesday due to lake effect snow bands.
Temperature Drop and Wind Chill:
A significant drop in temperatures is expected over the weekend. Temperatures will fall about 10 degrees on Saturday and another 10 degrees on Sunday. Saturday will see highs in the 40s, but Sunday’s highs will not exceed the upper 30s. This cold air mass will bring bone-chilling wind chills by Monday morning, with feels-like temperatures near 10 degrees and actual air temperatures in the 20s.
Historical Snowfall Data:
Historically, Metro Detroit’s average date for the first measurable snowfall (0.1 inch) is November 16th. The average date for one inch or more of snow is November 30th, and for three inches or more, it’s December 26th. The earliest measurable snowfall occurred on October 12, 2006, while the latest occurred on December 29, 1998.
Preparing for Winter Conditions:
Residents should prepare for potentially slippery conditions on roads and sidewalks. Ensuring vehicles are winterized and equipped with appropriate tires is advisable. Additionally, individuals should dress in layers to stay warm and protect themselves from the cold temperatures and wind chills. Parents should ensure children are dressed appropriately for the cold weather, especially when waiting at bus stops on Monday morning.