Gaylord, Michigan – Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to expand after 2 p.m. Friday across northern Michigan, with the greatest impacts through midnight as slow-moving storms bring localized rainfall totals exceeding 2 inches and threaten flooding on key routes including US-31, M-32, and I-75.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, showers will become widespread this afternoon, moving west to east across the region. While some areas remain dry through midday—especially near the Straits and eastern Upper Peninsula—conditions will deteriorate quickly later in the day with heavier downpours developing.
Communities including Traverse City, Petoskey, Gaylord, Alpena, and Cadillac are in the primary impact zone. Rainfall totals of 0.5 to 1 inch are common, but pockets of 2 inches or more could occur, especially in areas already dealing with standing water. This raises the risk of flooded low-lying roads, reduced visibility, and possible temporary closures. Fog may also develop this evening, particularly in low-lying areas.
Drivers should avoid water-covered roads, slow down during heavy rain, and allow extra travel time. Residents in flood-prone locations should monitor water levels closely and be ready to move to higher ground if needed.
Rain will taper to drizzle overnight, with cooler conditions Saturday and highs between 45 and 60 degrees. Dry, milder weather returns Sunday, with another chance of rain by Tuesday. Additional updates are expected as conditions evolve.
