Gaylord, Michigan – Rain will transition to accumulating snow across northern Michigan this afternoon, with 1 to 3 inches expected by 7 p.m. Friday and slick travel developing along I-75 and M-32.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, rain spreading across the region this morning will switch to a rain/snow mix by early afternoon before becoming mainly snow, especially across the eastern Upper Peninsula and the Tip of the Mitt. The highest snowfall totals, between 1 and 3 inches, are expected from Sault Ste. Marie south toward Gaylord and Rogers City.
Slippery roads are likely by late afternoon.
Drivers on I-75 from Grayling to the Mackinac Bridge may encounter wet pavement turning slushy as temperatures cool. M-28 across the eastern Upper Peninsula and US-131 near Petoskey could see localized hazardous travel into the evening commute as snow accumulates on untreated surfaces.
The most impactful travel window is expected between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., when precipitation changes over and snowfall rates briefly increase. Visibility may drop below one mile in heavier bursts, particularly in open areas.
Road crews are expected to monitor conditions, but rapid changes in pavement temperature could lead to isolated slick spots before plows fully respond.
What residents should do now: Allow extra travel time this afternoon, reduce speed on bridges and ramps, and check Mi Drive for updated road conditions before heading out.
Snow tapers later this evening, with mainly snow showers lingering overnight. No major winter storm warnings are in effect, but localized hazardous travel will remain possible through Friday night.
