GAYLORD, Mich. – A widespread hard freeze settled across Northern Lower and parts of Eastern Upper Michigan early Thursday, with temperatures plunging as low as 23°F between 3AM and 9AM EDT. The National Weather Service said the deep chill was enough to end the growing season for most areas from Traverse City to Alpena and across the Straits region.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, the Freeze Warning remains in effect until 9AM EDT for Emmet, Otsego, Alpena, and surrounding counties. Subfreezing air extended from Leelanau and Benzie counties east through Alcona and Arenac, including parts of Chippewa and Mackinac counties in the Upper Peninsula. By midmorning, sunshine will help temperatures slowly climb back above freezing.
Residents are urged to take steps to protect outdoor plants and exposed plumbing. Gardeners should bring potted plants inside or cover sensitive vegetation, and homeowners should drain hoses and insulate outdoor pipes. Agricultural officials said farmers across Roscommon and Gladwin counties are likely seeing the season’s first total crop kill due to the duration and intensity of the cold.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, hunters and early-morning travelers should be prepared for icy windshields and slick frost on bridges and rural roads. Calm winds and clear skies will continue to promote cold overnight lows through Friday morning before a gradual warming trend begins this weekend.
