Michigan weather feels deceptively calm before conditions turn hazardous. Pavement looks damp, air feels heavy, and low clouds linger across northern Michigan this morning. That quiet setup masks a developing winter threat.
Freezing drizzle remains possible early today across parts of northern Lower Michigan and eastern Upper Michigan. While amounts stay light, even a thin glaze can make sidewalks and driveways slick. Winds increase through the day, keeping surfaces cold despite temperatures hovering in the mid-30s.
By Thursday, drizzle and rain redevelop, transitioning to rain and snow by evening. Gusty winds accompany the system, pushing colder air south. That combination sets the stage for the main concern: a rapid temperature drop Thursday night. As readings plunge below freezing, standing water on roads will freeze quickly.
Travel impacts may escalate fast. I-75, US-27, and M-32 could become slick late Thursday night into early Friday. Blowing snow and falling temperatures may reduce visibility while ice forms underneath. Residents should complete errands early and avoid unnecessary travel after dark.
Friday remains unsettled. Snow showers are likely, with highs near 20 degrees. While snowfall totals appear modest, repeated snow bursts and cold pavement increase the risk of icy patches lingering throughout the day. Wind chills dip into the single digits, reinforcing winter’s grip.
Looking ahead to the Christmas Travel weekend, winter conditions stay active. Saturday brings additional snow showers with highs near 31 degrees. Saturday night turns colder, and Sunday stays mostly cloudy and chilly. While no major storm is locked in, models hint at continued snow chances into early next week.
Five-Day Outlook for Gaylord
- Today: Patchy freezing drizzle early, high near 36
- Thursday: Rain changing to snow, windy, high near 34
- Friday: Snow showers, colder, high near 20
- Saturday: Snow showers possible, high near 31
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, colder, high near 21
