As the storm intensifies, Metro Detroit could experience damaging winds, icy roadways, and power disruptions.
As the storm intensifies, Metro Detroit could experience damaging winds, icy roadways, and power disruptions.
High Wind Warning Issued for Southeast Michigan.
A High Wind Warning will be in effect for all of Southeast Michigan from 12 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, as a powerful storm system delivers destructive winds, hazardous travel, and the possibility of power outages to the area.
West winds are forecast to pick up fast overnight, with steady speeds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts of 50 to 60 mph. The strong gusts, along with saturated soils from heavy rainfall, heighten the likelihood of felled trees, electrical lines, and dispersed power outages. Travel may be challenging at times, particularly for high profile cars.
Before the winds pick up, widespread rain will continue Sunday, with 1 to 2 inches forecast in parts of Southeast Michigan. The greatest rain will fall in the afternoon and evening, increasing the risk of ponding on roads and localized floods, especially in low-lying and urban areas.
Scattered thunderstorms are also likely Sunday evening, with a few potentially powerful storms, primarily south of I-94. The greatest concern from any larger storms will be gusty gusts that may reach 50 mph for a brief period of time.
As a strong cold front moves through late Sunday night, temperatures will plummet dramatically. Temperatures will soar into the 50s in the evening, with cold air dropping temperatures by 20 degrees or more in the hours before dawn. Rain is forecast to turn to snow by Monday morning, and the sudden drop in temperature could cause a flash freeze on untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges, particularly during the Monday morning commute.
On Monday, snow showers and squalls are expected, resulting in brief spells of limited visibility and sudden whiteout conditions. While snowfall amounts are forecast to be between 1 and 2 inches, the combination of blowing snow and strong winds may make travel problematic at points throughout the day.
A 4Warn Weather Alert has been issued for Monday due to destructive winds, hazardous roadways, and snow squalls.
Looking ahead.
Colder air will remain in place until the middle of the week. Seasonably cold temperatures are forecast for New Year’s Eve on Wednesday night and New Year’s Day on Thursday, with highs in the 20s and lower 30s. Light snow may fall intermittently until midweek, but no considerable accumulation is forecast at this time.
Residents are asked to secure loose outdoor goods, plan for potential power outages, and exercise caution when traveling, particularly Sunday night through Monday evening. Make sure you have a flashlight and fresh batteries handy.
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