GAYLORD, Mich. – Northern Michigan is shifting into a colder, more wintry pattern as fall rain gives way to snow showers by the weekend. The National Weather Service in Gaylord reports that rain will taper off Wednesday afternoon, mainly north of M-72, before colder air brings scattered snow and rain showers overnight—especially in the Upper Peninsula snowbelts.
According to forecasters, Thursday will be mainly dry and partly sunny, with highs in the 40s to near 50 degrees. A quick-moving system will bring rain showers back Thursday night into Friday. By Saturday, temperatures will drop into the 30s and low 40s, setting the stage for mixed rain and snow showers.
Snow showers will become more widespread Saturday night and persist through at least Monday morning, with minor accumulations expected in the snowbelts of eastern Upper and northwest Lower Michigan. The best chance for light snow buildup will occur around Gaylord, Petoskey, and Pellston, where cold northwest winds will enhance lake-effect bands.
Residents are urged to prepare for reduced visibility and slick roads during heavier bursts of snow late this weekend. While no major storm is expected, the early November chill will make it feel like winter has arrived across northern Michigan.
Five-Day Forecast for Gaylord, MI:
Wed: 55/34 – Rain early; tapering off late, breezy.
Thu: 49/37 – Partly sunny; mainly dry and cool.
Fri: 51/39 – Cloudy; evening rain develops.
Sat: 43/34 – Rain and snow showers; turning colder.
Sun: 39/33 – Scattered snow showers; wintry feel continues.
