Gaylord, Michigan – Temperatures will swing nearly 20 degrees in less than 24 hours, setting up slick travel along I-75 by Saturday night as winter air rushes back into northern Michigan.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, mild conditions will hold through Friday afternoon with highs ranging from the upper 30s to near 50 degrees across parts of northern Lower Michigan. Areas south of Gaylord may see intervals of sunshine, while locations near the Straits could spot a brief rain shower.
A cold front moves through Friday night, ushering in sharply colder air for the weekend. By Saturday, highs will struggle between 13 and 28 degrees, and scattered snow showers may develop across Otsego, Antrim and Crawford counties. While widespread accumulation is not expected, brief bursts of snow could coat stretches of I-75 and M-32, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
The cold intensifies Saturday night into Sunday morning, with lows falling between 5 and 10 degrees above zero. Untreated roads, bridges and overpasses may refreeze quickly after sunset. Wind chills will make it feel even colder for anyone outdoors.
Drivers should reduce speed during snow showers and remain alert for black ice, particularly along I-75 north toward Mackinaw City. Keep winter gear in vehicles and allow extra travel time this weekend.
Conditions turn slightly milder by Monday, but cold air dominates through Sunday. Additional updates are possible if snow coverage increases.
