An ice storm that is wreaking havoc across the northern part of the Lower Peninsula and the U.P. has caused conditions to deteriorate so much that authorities are asking motorists to stay off the roads and stay home. Montmorency County, east of Gaylord, has asked its residents to shelter in place because of the continuing danger of falling trees and downed power lines.
The Shelter in Place warning was issued about 8:30 p.m. “County residents should shelter in place due to danger posed by falling trees. If you need to go to a shelter, there are 3: Lewiston Catholic Church, Hillman Fire Hall, Atlanta Community Schools,” county officials said.
Freezing rain began overnight and early this morning, and ice buildup has continued across part of northern Lower Michigan and parts of the Upper Peninsula today. Freezing rain and sleet are expected to continue in some areas, while others are facing a heavy snow forecast into Sunday and early Monday. Up to a foot or more of snow is expected in parts of the U.P.
But it’s the ice and freezing rain that is causing problems on the road today and into tonight. Ice on tree limbs and power lines are leading to downed trees and power outages.
“For those in spots where freezing rain continues, travel is discouraged,” the National Weather Service in Gaylord said. “Several area sheriff’s offices are reporting deteriorating conditions due to downed trees / limbs / power lines. In addition, roads likely become very icy after sundown where freezing rain persists.”
There have been reports of trees falling onto homes and trees falling and blocking roads.
In the Lower Peninsula, the Ice Storm Warning area includes a line from Gaylord east to Alpena, then north to Rogers City and Petoskey, all the way up to the Mackinac Bridge.
The entire Upper Peninsula is a patchwork of Ice Storm Warnings and Winter Storm Warnings.
In Otsego County, sheriff’s officials posted a warning on social media about the rapidly deteriorating conditions:
“Roads are becoming extremely slippery and hazardous, with reports of fallen trees affecting both roads and homes. Please stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.”
“Important Safety Tips:
• Avoid travel if possible.
• If you must drive, slow down, increase following distance, and keep headlights on.
• Stay indoors, and to interior rooms or basements to avoid falling trees/debris.
• Keep an eye out for downed power lines and fallen branches.
Teams are actively working to clear roads, and restore power but conditions are worsening."