Detroit woke up cloudy and cold at 32°F early today, but the gray start will not stick around. Skies are expected to clear quickly and temperatures should climb into the low 50s this afternoon, offering a quick taste of spring before winter snaps back. A southwesterly breeze will strengthen later in the day, so the afternoon and evening could feel noticeably blustery despite the mild temperatures.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Southwest winds are expected to run around 6-12 mph, with gusts building into the mid-20s to mid-30s late Friday afternoon and into the evening. That is enough to rattle loose outdoor items and make bridges and exposed stretches uncomfortable for high-profile vehicles, so drivers should plan for gusty crosswinds during the evening commute. According to the National Weather Service in Detroit, the strongest gusts are most likely around sunset.
Late Saturday Snow Band
A sharp cold front is set to sweep in on Saturday, flipping the script and setting up a narrow but potentially efficient snow band late Saturday evening. Where that band repeatedly passes over southeast Michigan, forecasters have nudged the higher odds northward toward the Tri Cities and Thumb, new snowfall of about 1 to 2 inches is possible, with lesser amounts elsewhere. Behind the front, temperatures take a notable dive on Sunday, March 1, with daytime highs mainly in the upper 20s.
What To Know For Your Commute
If you have Friday evening plans, it is a good idea to secure patio furniture, trash cans and tarps before the gusts really get going, and to build in a little extra travel time. Transit riders should be ready for occasional delays and check carrier alerts before heading out.
Looking Ahead
High pressure builds in early next week, and a gradual warming trend follows, with milder afternoons expected by midweek. If you have outdoor plans beyond next Tuesday, it is still worth checking updated forecasts as the pattern stays active.
