Michigan — Snowflakes drift sideways under gray skies this morning as lake-effect bands pulse across northern Michigan. Visibility drops in bursts, and the crunch of fresh snow under tires hints at a long winter stretch settling in.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, periods of accumulating lake-effect snow are expected today and tonight across eastern Upper Michigan and northern Lower Michigan. Northwest and far north-central Lower Michigan remain favored, including the Gaylord area. Snow showers will cycle on and off, with brief heavier bursts possible that reduce visibility quickly.
Road conditions may change fast, especially along US-131, M-32, and secondary roads near higher terrain. Even lighter accumulations can create slick stretches as temperatures remain well below freezing. Drivers should expect variable conditions through the day and into tonight.
Snow chances continue Thursday and Friday as lake-effect processes remain active. While no single storm dominates, repeated rounds add up, particularly in typical snow belts. Crews may struggle to keep up where bands persist.
The bigger story arrives late Thursday. Another surge of Arctic air, likely the coldest of the season, pushes into northern Michigan. Highs on Friday struggle near or below zero in some areas, with lows plunging well below zero at night. Wind chills will turn biting, making exposed skin vulnerable in minutes.
Saturday stays locked in the cold, even as snow coverage becomes more scattered. Any melting during daylight hours later this week will refreeze hard after sunset, increasing the risk of icy roads and walkways.
Looking ahead, the 6–10 day outlook keeps temperatures below normal across the Great Lakes, while storm systems remain active nearby. Winter shows no signs of loosening its grip.
Five-Day Outlook for Gaylord, Michigan
- Today: Snow showers at times, high near 21
- Tonight: Snow showers, low near 10
- Thursday: Snow showers likely, high near 13
- Friday: Chance of snow, extreme cold, high near -1
- Saturday: Very cold, mostly cloudy, high near 5
