Detroit, it’s time to get ready for a messy Monday! If you have plans to head out and about, the weather will be throwing some curveballs your way. Rain and snow showers are making their way into the area, and though it won’t be a full snowstorm, these mixed conditions will make for some slippery, tricky roads. As if that weren’t enough, frost will be creeping in on Tuesday morning, so make sure you’re prepared for a cold start to your day.
What’s Happening Monday: Rain, Snow, and Slippery Roads
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Rain Switching to Snow: Expect rain to take the lead on Monday morning, giving us that wet, dreary feel, but don’t get too comfortable! By the afternoon, temperatures will dip, and the rain will switch to snow showers. Don’t expect a heavy snowstorm, but the mix of slush and snow will make driving a bit tricky — especially on bridges and overpasses, where roads freeze faster. The wetness will freeze up, causing icy patches that could catch drivers off guard, so be cautious out there.
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Slippery Roads and Low Visibility: The combination of rain and snow will reduce visibility, making it hard to see ahead, so slow down and leave extra space between you and the car in front of you. If you’re driving, remember that the roads can get icy even if you don’t see much snow on the pavement. Watch out for wet spots that could quickly freeze, and keep those headlights on to help you see — and be seen — more clearly.
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Cold, Wet Weather: While temperatures will hover just above freezing (in the low 30s), the wetness combined with the wind will make it feel a lot colder than it is. Even though you may not see a heavy snowfall, it’ll feel like winter, so make sure you bundle up — a good jacket, hat, and gloves will help you stay comfortable while you navigate this wet, chilly day.
Tuesday: Frost Risk in the Morning
Once Monday’s rain and snow have passed, we have a new challenge to face. Early Tuesday morning, we’ll be looking at the risk of frost, especially in areas outside the city. The temperatures will likely drop below freezing overnight, which means your car might be covered in frost when you step outside. If you’re planning on hitting the road bright and early, give yourself extra time to scrape the ice off your windshield and let your car warm up before you drive.
It’s also worth noting that frost-covered roads can be just as dangerous as snow. Though we’re not expecting much snow on Tuesday, black ice can form quickly when the temperatures drop, so take it slow and be extra cautious on the roads, especially if you’re heading out in the early morning hours.
How to Prepare for Monday’s Wintry Mix
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Drive Safely: The rain and snow on Monday will likely cause slippery spots and reduce visibility, so slow down. Keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you, and avoid any sharp turns or sudden stops. Take your time, and remember, you don’t need to rush in these conditions. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, so be extra careful on those stretches.
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Layer Up: Even though temperatures will be just above freezing, the wet conditions will make it feel much colder. Dress warmly — grab a waterproof jacket and wear gloves and a scarf. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about keeping you safe and dry as you go about your day. Don’t forget about your boots too, as wet sidewalks could turn into mini ice rinks by the afternoon.
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Get Your Car Ready: Before you head out, take a minute to check your windshield wipers and make sure you have enough windshield washer fluid. The wet mix of rain and snow will require your wipers to be in tip-top shape. And be sure to clear your windshield thoroughly before you drive off — no one likes driving with a fogged-up window.
Prepare for Frost on Tuesday Morning
Once Monday’s weather moves out, don’t relax too soon. By Tuesday morning, the temperatures will dip below freezing, and frost will likely cover your windshield and any outdoor surfaces. If you’re heading out early, give yourself enough time to clear the frost off your car — and be cautious of any frosty patches on the roads. Black ice is sneaky, and it could create dangerous driving conditions before the sun even comes up.
Michigan’s weather has always had a mind of its own, and this week is no exception. With rain and snow showers on Monday followed by a frost risk on Tuesday, you’ll want to stay aware and ready for whatever comes your way. Whether you’re driving or just walking outside, these conditions will make things a bit tricky, so plan ahead and take it slow. Drive carefully, dress warmly, and make sure to clear the frost from your car in the morning. With a little bit of prep, you can get through the next few days with minimal hassle — and plenty of warmth!
