Key Takeaways
- A high-impact storm system is expected to move across Metro Detroit late Sunday through Monday, bringing widespread rain, strong winds, and a risk of flash freezing.
- The storm will have significant impacts on roads, air travel, and the power infrastructure across Southeast Michigan.
- Temperatures will rise into the 50s on Sunday evening, but will drop rapidly Monday morning, creating a high risk of flash freezing.
- Snow showers and brief snow squalls are possible throughout the day Monday, with wind chills falling into the teens and single digits.
- Travelers should be prepared for strong crosswinds, icy roads, and rapidly changing visibility on Monday.
Introduction to the Storm System
The 4Warn Weather Team has issued a 4Warn Weather Alert for Monday as a high-impact storm system is expected to move across Metro Detroit late Sunday through Monday. This storm will bring widespread rain, strong to potentially damaging winds, rapidly falling temperatures, snow squalls, and a risk of flash freezing, creating significant impacts on roads, air travel, and the power infrastructure across Southeast Michigan.
Sunday’s Weather Forecast
Rain is expected to develop late Saturday night into Sunday morning, with a brief window of freezing rain possible early Sunday for some northern communities. This could cause isolated slick spots on untreated roads and bridges. However, temperatures will rise quickly after sunrise, allowing precipitation to change to all rain. Rain will become widespread Sunday afternoon and evening, with many locations in Southeast Michigan receiving 1 to 1.5 inches of rain. Minor flooding in poor drainage or low-lying areas may occur, but widespread river flooding is not expected.
Monday’s Weather Forecast
The most significant impacts of the storm will arrive late Sunday night into Monday as a powerful arctic cold front sweeps through Southeast Michigan. A High Wind Watch will be in effect for Monday, with west to southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts reaching 50 to 60 mph 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. Temperatures will drop rapidly Monday morning, falling more than 20 degrees in just a few hours, creating a high risk of flash freezing, particularly during the Monday morning commute.
Travel Impacts and Preparations
Travelers 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. Drivers should have fresh batteries and a flashlight available in case of power outages. Anyone with travel plans Sunday or Monday is encouraged to monitor the 4Warn Weather forecasts closely and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Cold Weather Continues into New Year’s
Cold conditions will linger into the holiday week, with mostly cloudy and cold weather expected on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Highs will be in the upper 20s to near 30 degrees on Wednesday, with a few light snow showers possible. On Thursday, continued cold is expected, with highs in the lower to mid 20s and a chance of light snow. Travelers and residents should be prepared for the cold weather and potential snow showers during the holiday week.
Conclusion and Final Preparations
In conclusion, the high-impact storm system expected to move across Metro Detroit late Sunday through Monday will bring significant impacts on roads, air travel, and the power infrastructure across Southeast Michigan. Residents and travelers should be prepared for strong crosswinds, icy roads, and rapidly changing visibility on Monday, and monitor the 4Warn Weather forecasts closely for updates. By understanding the storm’s forecast and taking necessary preparations, individuals can stay safe and minimize disruptions during the holiday week.
