Detroit’s Winter Storm: Up to 1 Inch of Snow Per Hour—Here’s When Roads Will Be the Worst!

Hey Detroit, get ready for a snowy, slippery night—a winter storm is rolling in, and it’s about to make travel slow and potentially dangerous through early Thursday morning.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory, warning that snow could fall at rates of up to 1 inch per hour at times. That means roads could get covered quickly, and visibility might drop to near zero during the heaviest snowfall.

If you’re heading out tonight or driving to work early tomorrow, expect slick conditions and slow-moving traffic.

🌨️ What’s Happening?

A fast-moving winter storm is bringing heavy snow, gusty winds, and freezing rain to parts of Michigan.

✔ The snow will start this afternoon and pick up in intensity this evening.
✔ The heaviest snowfall is expected between 11 PM and 3 AM—this is when roads will be the worst.
✔ Areas south of I-94 could see a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, adding a layer of ice to roads and sidewalks.
✔ By the time the storm moves out, 3 to 5 inches of snow will have fallen in Metro Detroit.

📍 Who’s Getting Hit the Hardest?

🌨️ Metro Detroit & Nearby Areas

✔ 3 to 5 inches of snow expected, with some areas getting even more.
✔ Snowfall rates could hit 1 inch per hour, making it hard for plows to keep up.
✔ Slick roads and low visibility—expect a tough drive home and a messy morning commute.

🌨️ Areas South of I-94 (Lenawee, Monroe Counties)

✔ A mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain—expect a thin layer of ice on top of the snow.
✔ Icy roads, slippery sidewalks, and possible power outages if ice builds up on trees and power lines.

🚨 Why This Storm Matters

1. Slippery Roads & Poor Visibility

   • Snow will pile up quickly, making roads dangerous and hard to clear.
   • Visibility could drop to near zero during periods of heavy snowfall.
   • Bridges, overpasses, and side streets will freeze first—drive carefully!

2. Messy Evening & Morning Commutes

   • If you’re heading out after 5 PM, expect slow travel.
   • The worst conditions will be overnight, but roads could still be icy Thursday morning.
   • Give yourself extra time in the morning—or, if you can, wait until plows have cleared the roads.

3. Icy Mix & Power Outages South of Detroit

   • Ice buildup could weigh down trees and power lines, causing possible outages in some areas.
   • Charge your phone and have flashlights ready just in case.

🚗 Driving Tonight? Here’s What You Need to Know

✔ Slow down and drive carefully—black ice could be hiding under that snow.
✔ Give yourself extra time—everything will take longer, from merging onto highways to stopping at lights.
✔ Use your headlights, even in daylight—visibility will be poor.
✔ Keep an emergency kit in your car—blankets, snacks, water, and a flashlight just in case you get stuck.
✔ Check road conditions before heading out—visit MDOT’s Travel Map (michigan.gov/drive).

🏠 Staying In? Here’s How to Prepare

✔ Stock up on essentials—groceries, medications, and pet supplies in case roads are bad tomorrow.
✔ Charge your phone and have flashlights ready in case of power outages.
✔ Salt your driveway and sidewalks before things get icy—it’ll make shoveling easier later!
✔ Bundle up—temperatures will stay below freezing, so it’s going to stay cold.

⏳ When Will It Be Over?

• The snow will start tapering off around sunrise Thursday, but roads could still be icy.
• Plows will be working overnight, but side streets might not get cleared right away.
• More cold air sticks around, so don’t expect much melting anytime soon.

This storm isn’t the biggest we’ve seen, but it’s coming at the worst possible time—right when people are heading home and waking up for work.