Dense Fog, Rain, and Warmup Hit Detroit

Widespread rain and gusty winds expected Wednesday as a strong system moves through southeast Michigan.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Metro Detroit is waking up to dense fog and low clouds on Tuesday, with visibility dropping to around a quarter mile in some areas. A stronger low-pressure system will bring widespread rain late Tuesday night into Wednesday, along with much warmer and windier conditions. North of M-46, there is a brief window where temperatures could briefly hover around freezing, allowing a quick burst of freezing rain before temperatures rise.

Why it matters

The combination of dense fog, rain, and strong winds could create hazardous travel conditions across the region, especially for commuters, outdoor crews, and boaters. Residents with respiratory issues should also limit strenuous outdoor activity due to the Air Quality Advisory.

The details

The dense fog and low clouds are expected to linger through the morning commute, with drivers advised to use low beams and leave extra room to stop. The incoming low-pressure system will bring steady rain starting around 10 p.m. Tuesday, with a chance of thunderstorms and moderate rainfall amounts of 0.25-0.5 inches expected. North of M-46, there is a brief window where temperatures could briefly dip to freezing, leading to a potential burst of freezing rain before warming up. Winds will also pick up on Wednesday, with gusts up to 20 mph inland and stronger gusts over the lakes, prompting a Gale Warning for portions of Lake Huron.

  • The Dense Fog Advisory is in effect through 10 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • The rain is expected to arrive late Tuesday night, peaking overnight into Wednesday morning, February 18, 2026.
  • The gusty winds and warmer temperatures are forecast for Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The government agency responsible for issuing weather forecasts and advisories for the region.

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What they’re saying

“Folks with respiratory issues should go easy on strenuous outdoor activity.”

— National Weather Service

What’s next

Forecasters will monitor any expansion of the freezing-rain zone north of M-46 and post updates if warnings are adjusted.

The takeaway

Residents in the Detroit metro area should be prepared for a challenging commute on Tuesday morning due to the dense fog, and plan for wet, windy, and potentially icy conditions on Wednesday as a strong system moves through the region.