Detroit, MI, January 26, 2026
A severe winter storm has struck Metro Detroit, causing over 600 schools to close or delay classes on January 26. The National Weather Service warned of significant snowfall and dangerously cold temperatures, with road conditions also deteriorating. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and adhere to safety recommendations during this hazardous weather event.
Detroit, MI: Winter Storm Causes School Closures and Hazardous Conditions
Detroit, MI – A significant winter storm has impacted Metro Detroit, leading to school closures and hazardous travel conditions. The storm, which began on January 24, 2026, brought heavy snowfall and dangerously cold temperatures to the region.
Impact on Schools
Over 600 schools in Metro Detroit have been closed or delayed on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to the severe weather conditions. The closures include major districts such as Detroit Public Schools Community District, Dearborn Public Schools, Warren Consolidated Schools, Livonia Public Schools, and Superior Township Schools. Parents and guardians are advised to check with their local school districts for the most current information.
Weather Conditions
The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning for Monroe County, effective from 5 AM on January 25 until midnight that night. The warning indicated expected snow accumulations between 5 and 8 inches, with light snow continuing throughout the day and into the evening hours. A period of moderate to heavy snow was anticipated late in the afternoon.
In addition to the snowfall, a Cold Weather Advisory was implemented for all of Southeast Michigan from 7 PM on January 25 through 10 AM on January 26. This advisory warned of dangerously cold wind chills, with temperatures expected to drop into the 10 to 20 degrees below zero range by midnight for most of Metro Detroit.
Travel Advisory
Travel conditions have been severely affected by the storm. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) advises drivers to slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions can be obtained from the MDOT Michigan Drive Map.
Safety Recommendations
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors and dress in multiple layers to reduce the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Essential items include hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated outerwear, especially during early morning and nighttime hours. If travel is not necessary, it is recommended to stay off the roads.
Background
This winter storm is part of a larger system affecting much of North America, stretching from Northern Mexico and Southern to Northeastern United States and Canada. The storm has led to significant snowfall and ice accumulations, causing widespread disruptions.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and official weather services for the latest updates and safety information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which schools are closed in Metro Detroit due to the winter storm?
Over 600 schools in Metro Detroit have been closed or delayed on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to the severe weather conditions. The closures include major districts such as Detroit Public Schools Community District, Dearborn Public Schools, Warren Consolidated Schools, Livonia Public Schools, and Superior Township Schools. Parents and guardians are advised to check with their local school districts for the most current information.
What are the expected snowfall accumulations in Metro Detroit?
The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning for Monroe County, effective from 5 AM on January 25 until midnight that night. The warning indicated expected snow accumulations between 5 and 8 inches, with light snow continuing throughout the day and into the evening hours. A period of moderate to heavy snow was anticipated late in the afternoon.
What safety precautions should residents take during the winter storm?
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors and dress in multiple layers to reduce the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Essential items include hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated outerwear, especially during early morning and nighttime hours. If travel is not necessary, it is recommended to stay off the roads.
How can drivers stay informed about road conditions during the winter storm?
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) advises drivers to slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions can be obtained from the MDOT Michigan Drive Map.
What is the broader impact of the winter storm affecting Metro Detroit?
This winter storm is part of a larger system affecting much of North America, stretching from Northern Mexico and Southern to Northeastern United States and Canada. The storm has led to significant snowfall and ice accumulations, causing widespread disruptions.
Key Features of the Winter Storm Impacting Metro Detroit
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Snowfall Accumulation | 5 to 8 inches expected in Monroe County; light snow continuing throughout the day and into the evening hours. |
| Cold Weather Advisory | In effect from 7 PM on January 25 through 10 AM on January 26; wind chills expected to drop into the 10 to 20 degrees below zero range by midnight for most of Metro Detroit. |
| School Closures | Over 600 schools closed or delayed on January 26, 2026, including major districts such as Detroit Public Schools Community District, Dearborn Public Schools, Warren Consolidated Schools, Livonia Public Schools, and Superior Township Schools. |
| Travel Advisory | MDOT advises drivers to slow down and use caution; latest road conditions available from the MDOT Michigan Drive Map. |
| Safety Recommendations | Limit time outdoors; dress in multiple layers; essential items include hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated outerwear; if travel is not necessary, stay off the roads. |
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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.
