Gaylord, MI – A powerful ice storm is sweeping through northern Michigan, bringing dangerous travel conditions and the threat of power outages across several counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, an Ice Storm Warning remains in effect until 11 a.m. EDT Saturday, impacting areas including Cheboygan, Mackinac, Emmet, Presque Isle, and Chippewa Counties. Forecasters warn that ice accumulations could reach up to four-tenths of an inch, particularly north of M-68.
Significant icing is expected to coat roads, bridges, and overpasses, creating hazardous driving conditions. Power lines and tree limbs may become heavily burdened with ice, increasing the risk of widespread and prolonged outages.
Residents in the affected regions are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, with authorities warning that roads could become “nearly impossible” to navigate.
Preparedness officials recommend keeping flashlights, food, and water on hand in case of emergency. Those who must travel should ensure vehicles are stocked with cold-weather supplies and remain alert for fallen limbs or power lines.
This storm poses the most severe icing threat of the season so far for Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula. Emergency crews are on standby as conditions develop overnight into Saturday morning.
