Gaylord, MI – Bitter cold gripped Northern Michigan early Sunday, but relief is on the way with temperatures expected to rise above freezing by midweek. After hitting record-breaking lows of -21 degrees in recent days, Otsego County can look forward to milder conditions starting Christmas Day.
According to the National Weather Service, Sunday will remain cold with a high near 22 degrees and wind chills dipping to -18 degrees. Snow showers are expected late tonight, with up to 4 inches of accumulation possible by Monday morning. Travel could be impacted by slick roads and reduced visibility, so drivers should exercise caution.
Monday will bring a high of 29 degrees, with gusts up to 25 mph creating blowing snow. By Tuesday, conditions improve with mostly cloudy skies and calm winds, reaching a high of 33 degrees. The real warm-up arrives on Christmas Day when temperatures climb to 34 degrees, breaking the subfreezing streak.
Residents should still prepare for icy conditions overnight as temperatures dip back into the 20s. By Thursday, highs will reach 38 degrees, offering a brief reprieve from the harsh cold. However, additional snow or rain showers are possible toward the end of the week, making travel plans for the holidays potentially tricky.
With warming temperatures and a clearer forecast, Gaylord residents can look forward to safer road conditions and a more comfortable holiday season. Stay tuned for updates on changing weather patterns as Christmas approaches.