Gaylord, Mich. – Michigan is heading into a rare stretch of October heat, with temperatures pushing into the 80s this weekend and fire danger climbing due to dry air and gusty winds. The National Weather Service warns conditions may approach record-breaking warmth, leaving much of northern Michigan vulnerable to fast-spreading fires.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, Friday brings only a small chance of showers across eastern Upper Michigan and the Straits region. Beyond that, the forecast calls for sunshine, highs in the upper 70s to near 90 in spots, and breezy conditions that will quickly dry out vegetation.
Saturday looks to be the hottest day, with highs ranging from 76 to 88 degrees. The combination of warm air, low humidity, and winds will accelerate the risk of wildfires across northern lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. By Sunday, highs will still reach the low to mid-80s in some locations, keeping the fire danger elevated.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and use caution with anything that could spark flames. Fire officials say even small sparks could spread quickly in these conditions.
The heat is expected to persist into early next week, with no widespread rainfall to ease the risk. Weather advisories could be expanded if conditions worsen.
Five Day Forecast for Gaylord, Michigan
- Friday: Isolated showers near the Straits, highs 73–85, lows 53–63
- Saturday: Sunny, hot, and breezy, highs 76–88, lows 56–67
- Sunday: Warm and breezy, highs 72–84, lows 55–62
- Monday: Continued warm, highs mid-70s, lows upper 50s
- Tuesday: Slightly cooler, highs near 70, chance of scattered showers
