Alpena, MI – Roads across Northern Lower Michigan could turn treacherous overnight as a powerful winter system spreads freezing rain and sleet across the region, bringing the threat of power outages and dangerous travel through Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, an Ice Storm Warning takes effect at 8 p.m. Tuesday for Alpena, Alcona, Crawford, Oscoda, Roscommon and Ogemaw counties and continues until 8 p.m. Wednesday. Forecasters expect ice accumulations between a tenth and four-tenths of an inch, along with up to an inch of snow and sleet. East to northeast wind gusts could reach 35 mph overnight.
The storm is expected to intensify late Tuesday night, coating trees and power lines with thick ice. Communities including Alpena, Harrisville, Mio, Grayling and Houghton Lake could see tree damage and scattered to widespread outages if ice accumulates near the higher end of projections.
Drivers along key routes such as US-23, I-75, and M-72 may encounter nearly impassable roads during the overnight hours and into the Wednesday morning commute. Officials warn that hazardous conditions could linger into Wednesday evening as temperatures struggle to rise above freezing.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for possible power outages by charging devices and keeping flashlights and supplies ready. Anyone who must travel should carry emergency food, water and blankets in their vehicle.
Conditions should gradually improve late Wednesday night as the storm system exits, but additional advisories could follow if icing becomes more severe than expected.
Five Day Forecast for Alpena, Michigan
Tuesday Night: Freezing rain and sleet developing late, heavy icing possible. Low near 30. Wind gusts up to 35 mph.
Wednesday: Freezing rain and sleet early, gradually tapering. High near 33. Roads remain icy.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy with scattered snow showers. High near 34.
Friday: Partly cloudy and colder. High near 30.
Saturday: Chance of light snow with increasing clouds. High near 32.
