Shorts and t-shirts have not been uncommon attire for students this winter. Earlier this week temperatures reached a date-breaking record of 55 degrees. But if predictions of an oncoming snowstorm in the next few days are correct, spring and summer apparel may be put back on the shelves until March.

Ann Arbor is expected to receive up to six inches of snow today and tomorrow.

A winter storm watch is in effect until tomorrow. "The system is expected to travel northeast during the next couple of days (and may) bring very heavy snow," said University meteorologist Dennis Kahlbaum.

Kahlbaum noted the amount of snow depends on how much warm air accompanies the low-pressure system. A great deal of warm air could cause freezing rain or sleet instead of snow.

"We are right on the dividing line (between freezing rain and snow)," Kahlbaum said.

Monday"s record-breaking high of 55 degrees was evidence that this winter has been unseasonably warm for Michigan. Kahlbaum said the mild winter can be explained by upper-air patterns working to keep most of the cold air away.

"Flow of upper-air currents are not conducive to heavy snowfalls," he said. "Moisture couldn"t get to us."

Many student said they have appreciated the mild weather when walking to classes. "I like studying outside, I like walking outside. Everyone"s a lot less stressed out," said LSA junior Andrea Rowe.

LSA sophomore Tiffany Wade said she is also enjoying the change from previous winters. "It just worries me that it"s 55 degrees in January. People are wearing shorts!"

The storm is predicted to arrive sometime this afternoon or evening. "We can expect highs in the 30s for the remainder of the week," Kahlbaum said.