GAYLORD, Mich. – Thick fog and a steady chill settled over northern Michigan early Friday as the state braces for a full weekend of shifting skies and the season’s first true taste of winter. The region’s November pattern is turning sharply colder, and by Saturday night, snow showers are expected to return in force—just as weekend travelers hit the highways.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, a cold front crossing the Great Lakes will replace today’s passing rain with gusty northwest winds and plunging temperatures. Rain may briefly mix with snow by evening before turning fully wintry Saturday night. Winds up to 30 mph could create bursts of blowing snow near open fields and stretches of I-75, particularly between Gaylord and Grayling. While accumulation will remain light, visibility may drop quickly during heavier bands.
By Sunday, highs will hold in the mid-30s with widespread snow showers, especially over higher terrain in Otsego, Montmorency, and Antrim counties. Wind chills will dip into the teens by late day—an early reminder that northern Michigan’s lake-effect season is just around the corner.
Residents should secure outdoor items, clear drains, and keep an eye on local road conditions, especially as wet surfaces freeze after sunset. Veterans Day looks calmer but cold, with highs near freezing and more snow chances returning early next week. The region’s familiar winter rhythm is returning: blustery winds, gray skies, and that unmistakable crunch of early snow underfoot.
Five-Day Forecast for Gaylord, MI:
Fri: 47/27 – Rain, gusty winds; turning colder late.
Sat: 36/24 – Partly sunny; evening snow showers.
Sun: 34/18 – Snow showers; breezy, much colder.
Mon: 31/22 – Snow likely; wind chills in teens.
Tue: 37/29 – Mostly cloudy; chance flurries north.
