Winter storm to hit southeast Michigan just before Christmas: What to know

Nour Rahal, Detroit Free Press
·3 min read
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Take caution while traveling this holiday weekend: A winter storm is expected to hit southeast Michigan in the days leading up to Christmas.

Temperatures are expected to plunge from around 40 degrees on Thursday down to the upper teens on Saturday and Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. While it's unclear how much snow metro Detroit will get, as of Monday afternoon at least several inches are expected in the area.

Here's what to know.

At least 4 inches of snow

"At the time, there's still a lot of uncertainty with the system, but we're expecting precipitation to begin as rain on Thursday and then change over to snow sometime Thursday night, early Friday morning," said NWS White Lake office meteorologist Megan Varcie. "At the moment we are expecting 4 inches (of snow) or greater — but expect that number to change as we head into the week."

The majority of the snowfall will take place on Friday, but localized stronger snow squalls will continue Saturday, said NWS meteorologist Steven Freitag. The worst day for travel would be Friday.

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Temperatures could reach single digits Saturday and Sunday night.

"People that might be traveling to the west side of the state, the impacts over there, especially snow accumulation, will likely be greater given the influence from the lake," Varcie said.

Power outages

Wind gusts in excess of 45 mph are also expected later this week, possibly reaching 60 mph. With excessive wind, broken branches and power outages are often a concern. Report any power outages in southeast Michigan on DTE's website.

To prepare for a power outage, DTE suggests assembling an emergency kit in advance — including a battery-powered radio or TV for updates, flashlights, extra batteries, candles, matches, water and nonperishables.

"By the time a severe storm arrives, our emergency team is already at work implementing a storm response plan," according to DTE. "As soon as weather conditions permit us to safely begin restoration work, such as when the storm subsides, our crews assess the extent of the damage and begin restoration."

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How to prepare

"Pay attention to updates to the forecast, especially people traveling later this week, with the holiday coming up," Varcie said.

If you are traveling, here are a few winter weather driving tips:

  • Prepare a winter emergency kit for your vehicle. Include handwarmers, extra mittens and socks, emergency blanket, reflective emergency triangles, first aid kit, cellphone power cord and power bank, ice scraper and a flashlight.

  • Fill up your gas tank at least half full prior to the storm.

  • Leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles on the road.

  • Allow six to eight car lengths between you and any snowplow tucks.

  • Pack sunglasses. Snow and ice on the ground can worsen sun glare for drivers.

  • Pack a phone charger and make sure you can receive updates on weather and road conditions.

Service trucks will be ready to plow and salt the roads, reducing any hazards while driving. They are often out before it starts snowing, according to Wayne County Director of Communications Tiffani Jackson.

Drivers are encouraged to follow their local county's social media pages for updates on road conditions, tracking service trucks and winter storm tips.

Contact Nour Rahal: nrahal@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Snowstorm to hit southeast Michigan just before Christmas