Travelers in Eastern Upper and Northern Lower Michigan should prepare for a wet and stormy Sunday as strong thunderstorms move through the region. According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, heavy rain, gusty winds, and small hail are possible throughout the day, especially along key travel routes like I-75 and US-131.
Drivers and boaters should stay alert for changing conditions, as storms are expected to develop by late morning and continue into the afternoon.
Stormy Weather to Impact Travel Across Northern Michigan
Sunday’s forecast calls for widespread showers and storms, with an 80% chance of rain across the region. The storms may not reach severe levels, but strong wind gusts, occasional hail, and heavy rainfall could cause:
Poor visibility on highways
Slick roads and hydroplaning risks
Delays on I-75 and US-131
Disrupted boating on Lake Michigan and Lake Huron
Southwest winds of 10–15 mph will accompany the storms, creating extra challenges for high-profile vehicles and anyone towing boats or trailers.
Affected Areas and Timing
Communities including Alpena, Traverse City, Gaylord, Mackinac, and Chippewa counties are all expected to experience scattered thunderstorms. The strongest storms will likely move through by late morning into the early afternoon, moving west to east.
Safety Tips for Sunday Travel:
Reduce speed and increase distance between vehicles
Keep headlights on during heavy rain
Avoid driving through flooded areas
Secure any outdoor items that could blow away in gusty winds
Stay indoors at the first sign of thunder
Boaters should remain off the water during stormy periods, as winds and waves may pick up quickly.
Conditions Improve After Monday
By Monday, storm activity will begin to ease, although there’s still a 40% chance of lingering showers during the day. The real improvement comes Tuesday, when the skies clear and temperatures begin to rise slightly. Highs will climb into the mid-60s to near 70 by midweek, bringing more stable weather.
Gaylord, MI 5-Day Weather Forecast
| Day | Conditions | High Temp | Low Temp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Thunderstorms likely, windy | 62°F | — |
| Monday | 40% chance of showers | 61°F | — |
| Tuesday | Sunny and cooler | 64°F | 45°F |
| Wednesday | Mostly sunny | 69°F | 52°F |
| Thursday | Mostly sunny | 70°F | 50°F |
| Friday | Mostly sunny | 70°F | — |
What You Should Keep in Mind
Sunday is the wettest day of the week—limit travel if possible
Be cautious on I-75, US-131, and near waterways during storms
Monday brings lighter rain, then sunny, dry weather begins Tuesday
Stay updated with local forecasts in case any warnings are issued
This storm system will move through quickly, but it brings enough risk to impact weekend plans across the northern part of the state. Clearer skies are just around the corner, but until then, stay alert and safe.
