GAYLORD, Mich. – The early morning air feels crisp and calm across northern Michigan, but clouds already gather on the horizon. By Tuesday, that quiet will give way to a wet, windy stretch that could mark one of the season’s first true fall transitions. Leaves still cling to branches, but by midweek, steady rain and gusty northwest winds may bring many of them down for good.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, showers are expected to begin late Monday night and continue through at least Thursday. The heaviest rain will likely fall Tuesday into Wednesday, with winds gusting up to 25 mph at times. Travel along I-75 and U.S. 131 could be slowed by slick roads, standing water, and reduced visibility.
Temperatures will hover near the low 50s Tuesday before dropping into the upper 40s by Wednesday. Behind the rain, drier and colder air builds in by Thursday night. Lows will fall into the low to mid-30s across much of northern Lower Michigan, setting the stage for the first widespread frost of the season by Friday morning.
While no snow is expected just yet, models hint at a more winter-like pattern building next week. Residents should plan to protect late-season plants, check gutters, and prepare for chillier mornings ahead. For now, this week’s mix of rain, wind, and falling temperatures is a clear reminder — fall’s grip is tightening across the Great Lakes, and winter’s first whisper is just over the ridge.
Five-Day Forecast for Gaylord, MI:
Mon: 57/43 – Mostly sunny; breezy late.
Tue: 53/37 – Rain likely; gusty winds near 25 mph.
Wed: 47/35 – Showers; cooler and breezy.
Thu: 45/33 – Showers tapering; colder air arrives.
Fri: 49/34 – Mostly cloudy; frost possible early.
