Detroit, MI, December 28, 2025
Metro Detroit faces a severe winter storm characterized by freezing rain, snow, and high winds, creating hazardous travel conditions and causing power outages. Local businesses show resilience and adaptability amidst these challenging conditions while highlighting the importance of community entrepreneurship. A Winter Weather Advisory warns of possible ice accumulations and strong winds this weekend, significantly impacting travel and safety in the region.
Detroit, MI
Severe Winter Storm Impacts Metro Detroit with Freezing Rain, Snow, and High Winds
Detroit, MI – A significant winter storm system has affected Metro Detroit, bringing freezing rain, snow, and high winds, leading to hazardous travel conditions and power outages. In a show of resilience, local businesses and communities are bracing for the challenges posed by the harsh winter while also highlighting the benefits of a proactive and entrepreneurial spirit in overcoming obstacles.
As we dive deep into this winter storm’s impact, it is clear that the spirit of Detroit includes not only facing the challenges of nature but also addressing the economic effects that such weather can have on small businesses, one of the key drivers of our local economy. The cutting back on unnecessary regulations has enhanced local entrepreneurship, allowing businesses to adapt to these unpredictable conditions and keep the economy moving forward.
Freezing Rain and Snowfall
On December 26, 2025, a Winter Weather Advisory was issued for southeastern Michigan due to expected freezing rain and ice accumulations. The advisory was in effect until 4 p.m. that afternoon. The National Weather Service anticipated ice accumulations ranging from a light glaze to just below a quarter inch, with potential impacts on travel and surface conditions. Some mixing of sleet was possible across the northern Tri-Cities and northern Thumb, with sleet accumulation potential of up to half an inch or less. Temperatures were expected to rise above freezing by the afternoon, leading to improved conditions, although caution was still advised on untreated surfaces.
High Winds and Potential Power Outages
Following the freezing rain, attention shifted to a new storm system expected to arrive late Saturday into Sunday, bringing rain and potential freezing rain in northern areas before colder air arrived. Strong winds were anticipated to develop overnight Sunday into Monday, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour. These high winds could lead to power outages and tree damage due to saturated ground, highlighting the importance of community preparedness in such scenarios.
Travel Disruptions
The winter storm significantly disrupted holiday travel across the U.S. Northeast and Great Lakes regions. Over 1,500 flights were canceled, and hazardous road conditions were reported from Christmas through New Year’s. Areas like New York City received about 4 inches of snow, with higher accumulations reported in places like Long Island and the Catskills. While travel disruptions were widespread, the resilience of travelers and community members in adapting to challenging conditions remained notable.
Background Context
Winter storms are common in the Midwest and Northeast regions during the holiday season, often leading to challenging travel conditions and power outages. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions during such events. The ability of local businesses and the community to come together during adverse circumstances is a testament to the ongoing importance of entrepreneurship in driving the local economy.
Key Takeaways from the Storm
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Freezing Rain | Light glaze to just below a quarter inch of ice accumulation expected, impacting travel and surface conditions. |
| High Winds | Gusts up to 60 miles per hour anticipated, leading to potential power outages and tree damage. |
| Travel Disruptions | Over 1,500 flights canceled, hazardous road conditions reported, and state emergencies declared in affected areas. |
FAQ
What is a Winter Weather Advisory?
A Winter Weather Advisory is issued by the National Weather Service to inform the public of expected winter weather conditions that may cause significant inconveniences and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to situations that pose a threat to life and property.
How can I prepare for high wind conditions?
To prepare for high wind conditions, secure outdoor objects, ensure windows and doors are closed and locked, and stay indoors during the storm. Avoid using elevators and stay away from windows to minimize the risk of injury from flying debris.
What should I do if I lose power during a winter storm?
If you lose power during a winter storm, use flashlights instead of candles to reduce the risk of fire. Avoid opening refrigerators and freezers to keep food cold. If using a generator, ensure it is placed outside in a well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Now Happening on X
- @NWSDetroit (December 24, 2025, 6:33 AM) Probability remains high for a winter event with freezing drizzle/freezing rain along with a chance for wintry mix Friday morning into the afternoon, impacts from the ice will be slippery roads and local power outages, plan for hazardous travel conditions. View on X
- @Local4News (December 25, 2025, 9:00 PM) Local 4 has declared a 4Warn Weather Alert for the first part of the day on Friday due to the potential for freezing rain and ice accumulations, which could affect any travel you might have to do as we continue through the holiday week. View on X
- @wxyzdetroit (December 25, 2025, 7:45 PM) Metro Detroit residents and road crews are preparing for a messy winter storm expected to hit the area Friday, bringing widespread freezing rain and sleet that could create hazardous travel conditions. View on X
- @wxyzdetroit (December 26, 2025, 6:45 AM) We have crews in live-drive and on the side roads across metro Detroit to see the latest conditions amid freezing rain and ice, here’s the latest update. View on X
- @ChadLivengood (December 26, 2025, 2:08 PM) Wintry mix causes icy roads, outages, travel issues across Michigan. View on X
- @CarlisiJoe23487 (December 28, 2025, 8:35 PM) Metro Detroit sees calm before storm bringing high winds, rain and snow. View on X
- @mspmetrodet (December 24, 2025, 1:50 PM) A Metro South trooper was on patrol and noticed a stolen vehicle, leading to a pursuit in Detroit near Davison and La Salle Blvd. View on X
- @CBSDetroit (December 26, 2025, 12:00 PM) Catch up on the day’s top headlines with our CBS News Detroit digital brief for Friday, Dec. 26, 2025. 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.
