Michigan Ice Glaze Threat on Feb. 6 Could Slick Roads From Detroit to Grand Rapids as Freezing Drizzle Spreads
MICHIGAN — Freezing drizzle has begun and is expected to impact travel through midday Friday, February 6, 2026, with a light but widespread ice glaze possible across many areas of the state. While ice totals are not expected to reach “ice storm” levels, even a thin layer can turn untreated roads, sidewalks, and parking lots slick—especially during the morning drive.
What the Forecast Is Calling For
Forecasters say overnight temperatures in the 20s to near 30 degrees will be cold enough to support freezing drizzle, even if snowfall remains limited. The expected impact is a glaze around 0.03 inches on flat surfaces and tree branches in parts of Michigan, with many spots still staying below 0.05 inches overall.
That may sound small, but it’s often enough to create a “glass” coating on bridges, overpasses, and back roads before crews can fully treat problem areas.
Where Roads Could Turn Messy First
The ice outlook graphic highlights a broad area of light icing across Michigan, including population centers and travel corridors near Grand Rapids, Lansing, Flint, Detroit, Traverse City, and the Lake Michigan shoreline. Parts of southwest Michigan near Berrien County and the New Buffalo area are also included in the zone where totals may remain under 0.05 inches but can still cause hazardous driving.
The forecast discussion also mentions the risk of freezing rain extending into the Chicagoland-to-Berrien County corridor, depending on how temperatures shift as precipitation increases.
Timing: When the Worst Travel Conditions Are Expected
The timing shown on the ice outlook suggests the window of concern runs from around 9 p.m. Thursday through about 5 p.m. Friday. Most drizzle is expected to ease by late morning Friday, but some isolated locations may continue to see light drizzle into the evening commute if low-level moisture and temperatures remain favorable.
Even after precipitation tapers, roads can stay slick if temperatures dip again or if light snow covers the glaze—making it harder to spot.
Safety Advice for Drivers and Families
Drivers should plan for extra travel time Friday morning, reduce speeds, and be cautious on ramps and bridges where ice forms first. If you must travel early, keep extra stopping distance and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
What are conditions like where you live—are roads already starting to glaze? Share what you’re seeing and help other readers prepare by joining the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
