Michigan’s winter grip tightens briefly this morning as freezing rain creates a thin but dangerous glaze across parts of northern Lower Michigan. Pavement shines, tires hiss, and even light traffic feels uncertain in spots around Gaylord.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, a glaze of ice is possible through late morning, with the highest risk along and south of M-55. Ice-covered surfaces and slick roads may lead to hazardous travel conditions before temperatures climb above freezing this afternoon.
The freezing rain threat is narrow in time but impactful. Even a light glaze can turn untreated roads slick, especially on bridges, secondary roads, and shaded stretches. Drivers heading out early, including school and work traffic, should slow down and increase following distance. To be fair, not everyone will see icing, but conditions can change quickly over short distances.
As temperatures rise later today, precipitation transitions to plain rain. That change improves road conditions, though wet pavement will remain. Melting ice may refreeze after dark if temperatures dip, creating pockets of black ice tonight.
Looking ahead, winter weather does not fully step aside. Additional chances for rain and snow showers return later this week, with colder air settling in toward the weekend. Any daytime melting followed by nighttime cooling increases the flash-freeze risk.
Residents should monitor road conditions, allow extra travel time, and keep emergency supplies in vehicles. After all, January weather in northern Michigan often punishes small mistakes.
Warnings or advisories may be adjusted if icing lingers longer than expected.
