Saginaw, Michigan – Drivers across Michigan’s Thumb and parts of Mid-Michigan could face slippery conditions Tuesday morning as a period of freezing rain moves through the region, creating an icy glaze on roads, sidewalks, and bridges. The greatest impacts are expected during the morning commute before conditions slowly improve by early afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit and Pontiac, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect through early afternoon for Huron, Saginaw, Tuscola, Sanilac, Bay, and Midland counties. Ice accumulations of around one-tenth of an inch are expected, which is enough to create hazardous travel on untreated surfaces. Temperatures hovering near freezing are allowing rain to freeze on contact, especially on elevated roadways and less-traveled roads.
Communities including Saginaw, Bay City, Midland, Caro, Bad Axe, and Sandusky are likely to see the most noticeable impacts. Local road agencies may struggle to keep up with changing conditions as precipitation transitions through the morning. Even brief freezing rain can lead to spin-outs, minor crashes, and slower traffic across the region.
Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra time to reach their destination. Pedestrians should also use caution on stairs and sidewalks due to hidden ice. The advisory remains in effect until early afternoon, and slick spots could linger even after precipitation ends.
