Winter Weather Advisory for 20 Michigan Counties as Snow, Ice, and Freezing Rain Approach Friday Morning

Published on December 25, 2025

As the holiday season wraps up, Michigan residents are bracing for a significant winter weather event that is expected to hit the state this Friday, December 26, 2025. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for 20 counties across the state, warning of dangerous conditions, including snow, freezing rain, and icy roadways. The advisory is expected to impact morning commutes and potentially disrupt travel plans for holiday-goers.

A Rapid Weather Transition: Snow, Ice, and Freezing Rain

The weather system sweeping across Michigan is expected to bring a mix of snow, freezing rain, and sleet from the early hours of Friday morning. Meteorologists forecast that the weather will begin as rain, but as colder air moves in, it will transition into freezing rain and snow. These conditions are expected to create hazardous travel situations, especially during the morning commute.

The NWS anticipates that 1 to 4 inches of snow will accumulate across the region, with certain areas, particularly in the northwestern parts of Lower Michigan, receiving higher totals due to lake-effect snow. Freezing rain is also expected to accumulate, potentially reaching one-tenth of an inch, adding to the danger on the roads.

For many Michiganders, this means slick roads, reduced visibility, and the potential for black ice on untreated surfaces. The weather will create dangerous travel conditions, with commuters urged to use extreme caution and delay travel plans if possible.

Counties Affected by Winter Weather Advisory

The Winter Weather Advisory covers a wide swath of Michigan, impacting major urban areas as well as rural counties. The advisory spans Lower Michigan, with affected counties including Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Ingham, and Kent, as well as parts of northern Michigan.

Travelers across these areas are being urged to prepare for slick and potentially dangerous roads as the weather system moves through. The National Weather Service and local emergency agencies are advising residents to monitor the weather closely and avoid unnecessary travel.

The advisory period is expected to last from early Friday morning until the evening, with the worst conditions likely to occur between 4 a.m. and 7 p.m. EST. However, weather conditions can change rapidly, so residents are advised to stay updated by checking the NWS alerts and local weather stations.

Weather Conditions and Impact on Travel

As the storm progresses, a combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain will cause hazardous driving conditions, particularly in the morning hours. Residents should be prepared for slick roads, especially those traveling on rural highways and in more mountainous areas.

Freezing rain can cause significant travel disruptions, leading to power outages and the possibility of slippery sidewalks and driveways. Motorists are urged to exercise caution and be prepared for delayed or even canceled flights at Detroit Metropolitan Airport and other regional airports as ice and snow accumulation affect runway conditions and aircraft de-icing.

In addition to snow accumulation, local reports suggest that winds will pick up later in the day, adding to the challenges on the roads. The wind chill is expected to drop temperatures to single digits in the afternoon, worsening the already challenging weather conditions.

Preparedness Tips for Residents and Travelers

With winter storms expected to cause significant disruptions, Michigan residents and travelers should take the necessary precautions:

1. Monitor Weather Updates: Stay informed about the latest conditions by following updates from the National Weather Service (NWS) and local weather stations.
2. Delay Travel Plans: If possible, avoid traveling during the peak of the storm, particularly between 4 a.m. and 7 p.m. EST when conditions are expected to worsen.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter driving by checking tire tread depth, battery levels, windshield wipers, and keeping an emergency kit with supplies like water, blankets, and food.
4. Drive with Caution: If you must drive, slow down and keep a safe distance between you and other vehicles. Be aware of black ice, especially in shaded or elevated areas where ice forms quickly.
5. Check Flight and Travel Status: Travelers flying out of Michigan should check their flight status and be prepared for potential delays due to winter weather.
6. Be Ready for Power Outages: Freezing rain can lead to downed trees and power lines, so have flashlights, batteries, and other emergency supplies on hand.

Weather System’s Larger Impact Across Michigan

While winter weather events like this one are common in Michigan, the timing of the storm could create added challenges. As the holiday season winds down, the storm is likely to coincide with increased traffic on the roads, including both local commuters and travelers returning home from vacations.

The National Weather Service has advised that while the storm will not reach the intensity of a Winter Storm Warning, the Winter Weather Advisory remains crucial for public safety. The impact of mixed precipitation and low visibility can still create significant delays for travelers, particularly for those who are unfamiliar with the winter driving conditions that are typical in Michigan.

In addition to the travel impacts, local authorities are prepared to address any emergency situations that may arise due to slick roads, school closures, and potential power outages.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect After Friday’s Storm

Once this winter storm passes through Michigan, residents can expect a cold and crisp weekend with temperatures staying in the teens and 20s Fahrenheit. The roads will likely remain slippery for several hours after the snow and freezing rain, as overnight temperatures will continue to dip below freezing.

However, the snowfall is expected to taper off by Friday evening, with conditions improving through Saturday. Clearer skies are forecast for the rest of the weekend, but travelers are urged to remain cautious during the Friday evening commute, as icy spots could persist on the roads.

Conclusion

As Michigan braces for a dangerous winter weather event, residents and travelers should remain vigilant and prepared for snow, freezing rain, and ice across 20 counties this Friday. With conditions expected to worsen during the morning and evening commutes, slippery roads, reduced visibility, and hazardous travel conditions are inevitable. By staying informed and following safety recommendations from local authorities and the National Weather Service, Michiganders can ensure they stay safe throughout this wintry event.