Gaylord, Michigan – Roads across northern Michigan could flood overnight as heavy rain and strong thunderstorms move in after 10 p.m., following a day of already saturated ground.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, multiple rounds of rain are expected through early Wednesday, with the most intense storms arriving between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Areas along and south of M-72, including Cadillac, Grayling, and West Branch, face the highest risk for both severe storms and flooding.
Rainfall totals exceeding 1 inch are possible in a short period, especially south of M-55, which could overwhelm drainage systems and lead to water-covered roads. Storms may also produce damaging winds, large hail, and a low-end tornado risk as they move east-northeast overnight.
Communities including Manistee, Gladwin, and Alpena could see repeated downpours, increasing the risk of localized flooding in low-lying areas and near rivers already running high. Travel along US-131 and I-75 may become hazardous with reduced visibility and standing water.
Residents are urged to avoid flooded roadways, prepare for rapidly changing conditions overnight, and keep alerts enabled while sleeping. Flooding concerns will continue into Wednesday morning, and additional warnings are likely.
