Southeast Michigan, January 16, 2026
A winter storm has hit Southeast Michigan, bringing significant snowfall on January 14, 2026. Accumulations reached up to 6 inches in some areas, resulting in school closures and hazardous driving conditions. Residents are advised to exercise caution while traveling as local authorities monitor the ongoing impact of the storm. The sudden intensity of this winter storm has taken many by surprise, and the combination of lake effect snow has contributed to the unexpected snowfall totals across the region.
Detroit, MI – Southeast Michigan Experiences Significant Snowfall
Detroit, MI – A winter storm on January 14, 2026, brought unexpected heavy snowfall to Southeast Michigan, leading to numerous school closures and challenging driving conditions. Snowfall totals varied across the region, with some areas reporting up to 6 inches.
Snowfall Totals by County
As of January 15, 2026, the National Weather Service reported the following snowfall accumulations:
- Macomb County: Shelby Township – 3.5 inches; Sterling Heights – 4.3 inches; Eastpointe – 5.5 inches; Richmond – 6.1 inches.
- Oakland County: Royal Oak – 4 inches; Beverly Hills – 4.5 inches; West Bloomfield – 5 inches; Ortonville – 5.1 inches; Novi – 6 inches; White Lake – 6.3 inches.
- Wayne County: Grosse Pointe Farms – 3 inches; Livonia – 5.5 inches; Romulus – 6.1 inches.
- Lenawee County: Morenci – 2.1 inches; Clinton – 4.1 inches.
- Monroe County: Monroe – 4 inches.
- Washtenaw County: Ann Arbor – 4 inches.
- St. Clair County: Riley Center – 3.7 inches.
- Genesee County: Linden – 1 inch; Flint Bishop Airport – 1.4 inches.
Winter Weather Advisory Details
On January 14, 2026, a Winter Weather Advisory was issued for most of Southeast Michigan, including St. Clair, Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Wayne, Lenawee, and Monroe counties. The advisory was in effect until 10 p.m. that evening. Snow totals of 1-3 inches were reported across portions of Southeast Michigan, with an additional 1-2 inches possible through the evening. A highly localized band of snow was observed across portions of Livingston, Oakland, and Macomb counties, expected to gradually move southeast through the Metro region during the early evening hours. Residents were advised to plan for slippery road conditions, which could impact the Wednesday evening commute.
Impact on the Region
The unexpected heavy snowfall led to numerous school closures and challenging driving conditions throughout Southeast Michigan. Residents were urged to exercise caution while traveling and to stay updated on weather conditions.
Background Context
Winter storms are not uncommon in Southeast Michigan during January. However, the intensity and rapid onset of this particular storm caught many by surprise. The combination of lake effect snow and a strong winter storm system contributed to the higher-than-expected snowfall totals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What areas in Southeast Michigan received the most snowfall?
Richmond in Macomb County, Novi and White Lake in Oakland County, and Romulus in Wayne County reported the highest snowfall totals, each receiving over 6 inches.
When was the Winter Weather Advisory in effect?
The Winter Weather Advisory was issued on January 14, 2026, and was in effect until 10 p.m. that evening.
How did the snowfall impact the region?
The heavy snowfall led to numerous school closures and challenging driving conditions throughout Southeast Michigan. Residents were advised to exercise caution while traveling.
What caused the higher-than-expected snowfall totals?
The combination of lake effect snow and a strong winter storm system contributed to the higher-than-expected snowfall totals in the region.
Key Features of the Snowstorm
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Snowfall Totals | Up to 6 inches in some areas of Southeast Michigan. |
| Winter Weather Advisory | Issued on January 14, 2026, until 10 p.m. that evening. |
| Impact | Numerous school closures and challenging driving conditions. |
| Cause | Combination of lake effect snow and a strong winter storm system. |
Now Happening on X
- @CBSDetroit (January 15, 2026, 12:00 PM) Roads were icy and snow-covered Thursday morning with hundreds of school closings reported in the region. View on X
- @WXYZDetroit (January 16, 2026, 7:57 PM) Metro Detroit residents woke up Thursday to snow blanketing neighborhoods after a winter storm swept through overnight. View on X
- @Local4News (January 15, 2026, 8:00 PM) A thick blanket of snow covered Metro Detroit, prompting numerous delays and difficult road conditions. View on X
- @CityofDetroit (January 14, 2026, 2:29 PM) With temperatures dropping into the teens and wind chills in the single digits, the City is activating overnight shelters and daytime respite locations to protect residents from the bitter cold. View on X
- @DetHealth (January 14, 2026, 2:29 PM) The City of Detroit is activating overnight shelter and daytime respite locations as temperatures drop into the teens with wind chills in the single digits. View on X
- @CBSDetroit (January 9, 2026, 12:00 PM) Inkster police are investigating a fatal shooting, and Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield’s public investiture ceremony took place today. View on X
- @DanaAfana (January 13, 2026, 12:19 PM) Dozens gathered at City Council demanding an end to ICE activities in Detroit and urging officials to make the city a sanctuary city amid recent discussions on DPD cooperation. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
