Lenawee County is expected to experience the coldest temperatures of the winter season this weekend as a powerful arctic air mass moves into Michigan. According to the National Weather Service, dangerously cold air will overspread the region beginning Thursday night and continue through Sunday morning, bringing sub-zero wind chills and overnight low temperatures that may dip below zero degrees.
Wind chills in southern Michigan are expected to make temperatures feel between -5 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a serious risk for cold-related illnesses such as hypothermia and frostbite. At these levels, frostbite can occur in as little as 30 minutes on exposed skin.
The National Weather Service has described this event as rare and potentially near record-setting, even for a Michigan winter. Health officials are already seeing an increase in cold-related emergency department visits across the state and expect those numbers could rise again as temperatures drop further this weekend.
How to Stay Safe During Extreme Cold
Lenawee County residents are encouraged to take the following precautions:
- Stay indoors, when possible, especially during overnight and early morning hours.
- Limit time outside, and take frequent breaks in warm areas if you must be outdoors.
- Dress in layers, including hats, gloves, and scarves that cover exposed skin.
- Check on older adults, neighbors, and anyone without adequate heat.
- Bring pets indoors and ensure livestock have access to shelter and unfrozen water.
- Use space heaters safely and never use grills or generators indoors.
Local Warming Centers
Warm spaces are available throughout the county for anyone needing a safe place during the cold spell.
Public Libraries
All local libraries serve as warming centers during their normal hours of operation. Check with your nearest library for schedules.
Senior Centers
All Lenawee County Senior Centers also serve as warming centers during their normal hours of operation. Visitors can enjoy hot coffee while warming up, stay for activities and games, and even enjoy a warm lunch during meal service. Check out our website for locations and daily schedules.
Share the Warmth Lenawee
427 W. Maumee Street, Adrian
Starting at 9 AM Friday, January 23rd, and continuing until 9 AM Tuesday, January 27th, Share the Warmth of Lenawee will be operating as a 24-hour Emergency Cold Weather Shelter. Beds will be available on a first-come, first-served basis until further arrangements can be made. The center welcomes anyone needing relief from the cold.
Resources
MDHHS Cold Health and Safety Fact Sheet – also in Spanish
Michigan Fall and Winter Educational Resource Packet
Michigan Prepares – Winter Weather
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Factsheet
Portable Generators Factsheet
MDHHS Learn More About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Winter Weather and Pets from Michigan State Police (MSP)
CDC Winter Weather: Before, During, and After
CDC - Generator Safety (fact sheet in multiple languages)
CDC - Carbon monoxide (fact sheet in multiple languages)
CDC - Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Basics – Translated Fact Sheets
24/7 Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990
24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.