Residents across Southeastern Michigan are being urged to use caution as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect on Friday, December 26, due to freezing rain and sleet creating slick and hazardous conditions. Weather officials warn that icy roads and sidewalks could significantly impact travel throughout much of the day, particularly during the morning and early afternoon hours.
According to the National Weather Service, the advisory covers a broad portion of the region, including Metro Detroit and surrounding counties such as Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Monroe, Livingston, Lenawee, and Lapeer. The alert began early Friday morning and is expected to remain in place until late afternoon as temperatures hover near the freezing mark.
Meteorologists say the primary threat comes from freezing rain developing shortly after sunrise. As a low-pressure system tracks south of the area and warmer air attempts to push northward, surface temperatures are expected to stay just cold enough for rain to freeze on contact. This setup increases the risk of ice forming on untreated roads, bridges, power lines, and tree branches.
Forecast models suggest ice accumulation ranging from a light glaze up to a few tenths of an inch in some locations. Even small amounts of ice can cause dangerous driving conditions, especially during peak travel times. Officials note that while road crews are actively treating major routes, continued precipitation may reduce the effectiveness of salt and de-icing efforts.
Drivers are advised to slow down, increase following distances, and consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve later in the day. Pedestrians should also be cautious of icy sidewalks and parking lots.
Weather conditions are expected to gradually improve by Friday evening as the system moves east, though skies will remain mostly cloudy overnight with colder temperatures settling in. Looking ahead to the weekend, a brief warm-up is possible before another cold front brings renewed chances of wintry precipitation and colder air early next week.
As winter weather patterns continue to shift, residents are encouraged to stay updated with the latest forecasts and advisories to ensure safety during the final days of the holiday season.
