Gaylord, MI – A wintery mix of sleet and freezing rain is forecast to impact eastern Upper Michigan and far northern Lower Michigan beginning Friday afternoon and continuing through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, areas north of M-68, including Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace, and Petoskey, could see ice accumulations up to 0.25 inches. The freezing rain is expected to begin around 2 p.m. Friday and persist until at least 8 a.m. Saturday, with a second round possible late Saturday night into Monday.
Icing is likely on roads, sidewalks, and driveways, creating hazardous travel conditions Friday evening into Saturday. The combination of ice and breezy winds may bring down tree limbs and power lines, raising the risk of scattered outages across the region.
Localized changes in air temperature could reduce icing in some spots, particularly across Chippewa County and the Tip of the Mitt. However, the uncertainty means residents should remain alert and check for updates frequently.
Drivers are advised to slow down, allow extra time for travel, and prepare emergency kits in vehicles. Pedestrians should also take caution on slick sidewalks. Stay tuned to local forecasts and the National Weather Service for the latest advisories.
