4Warn Weather – If you are traveling this weekend, you will want to keep a close eye on the weather.
A winter storm is set to move into Michigan Saturday afternoon, and it is expected to drop five to eight inches of snow across much of southeast Michigan by Sunday morning.
This comes as thousands of people hit the roads and head to the airports following Thanksgiving.
The National Weather Service has Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories.
Travel will become difficult later in the day on Saturday, especially as the evening approaches.
Alerts
A 4Warn Weather Alert is declared for Saturday and Sunday
Winter Storm Warning (heavier snow):
Livingston, Washtenaw, and Lenawee counties
Winter Weather Advisory (still impactful):
Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Monroe, Lapeer, St. Clair, Sanilac, and Genesee counties
The Winter Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory are in effect from 3 p.m. Saturday through 10 a.m. Sunday.
What to expect
Light snow begins Saturday afternoon, as early as 1 PM to 2 PM in western counties, and then spreads toward Metro Detroit through the late afternoon.
The biggest trouble arrives Saturday evening. That is when the storm becomes more organized, and snowfall rates could reach 1 inch per hour, especially between 6 PM and midnight. If you are driving during that window, expect slippery roads, slow travel, and poor visibility. Road crews may have difficulty keeping up for several hours.
Snow continues overnight, gradually letting up by Sunday morning, with leftover flurries and slick spots lasting into midday.
What kind of snow to expect
The type of snow will depend on where you live.
In Metro Detroit, temperatures will be a little milder, in the lower 30s. This means the snow could begin slightly wetter and heavier, especially south of Detroit.
In the suburbs and central counties, temperatures near 30 degrees will bring a typical Midwest snowfall.
It will not be overly wet, nor will it be especially fluffy.
In the Thumb and northern counties, colder air remains in place.
Expect drier, lighter, and more powdery snow that accumulates quickly and easily.
Why snow totals may vary
Travel Impacts
Around Metro Detroit, roads will become snow-covered quickly Saturday evening.
If you are heading to a game, a show, or a post-holiday gathering, plan extra time and be prepared for slow travel.
Across the state, heavier snow is likely from the Tri-Cities down toward Ann Arbor.
Roads to the north may also become difficult as lake-effect snow develops behind the central system on Sunday.
Nationally, travel may also be affected.
This storm is part of a larger pattern impacting multiple regions of the country.
Major hubs, including Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, and Detroit Metro Airport, may experience delays or cancellations.
If you are flying on Sunday, arriving early and checking your airline for updates will be important.
How To Stay Safe On The Roads
Snow Timeline
Saturday afternoon
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday late afternoon and early evening
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday evening — heaviest snow
6 p.m. – midnight
Overnight into Sunday
Midnight – 7 a.m.
Sunday morning
7 a.m. – Noon
Total accumulation by midday Sunday
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Find the latest forecast from the 4Warn Weather team here
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