Southern Michigan Roads Turn Snow-Covered as Slide-Off Reports Grow Along I-196 Near Hudsonville
HUDSONVILLE, MICHIGAN — Snow is quickly covering roadways across a large portion of southern Michigan late Saturday night, and early reports indicate drivers are already dealing with slide-offs as conditions worsen.
A live traffic camera view from Interstate 196 near Hudsonville showed snow accumulating on the ground and along the roadside around 10:45 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, with vehicles traveling through a dark, wintry scene as visibility and traction concerns increase.
What Drivers Are Seeing on I-196 Near Hudsonville
The I-196 camera image shows a noticeable layer of snow coating the landscape near the highway, including the median and shoulders. While traffic was still moving, the scene reflects the kind of conditions that can turn dangerous fast—especially when temperatures are low enough for snow to stick and refreeze.
The update accompanying the camera view warned that roads are becoming snow covered across much of southern Michigan, and that reports of vehicles sliding off the roadway were already coming in late in the evening.
Why Slide-Offs Often Spike Early in a Snow Event
Slide-offs frequently happen during the first hours of accumulating snow, when road surfaces transition from wet to slick and drivers haven’t yet adjusted speed or following distance. Even a thin layer can reduce traction dramatically—particularly on curves, exit ramps, bridges, and overpasses that freeze faster than surrounding pavement.
Nighttime travel adds another layer of risk because drivers may not see patchy ice, drifting snow, or sudden changes in road condition until it’s too late to brake safely.
Safety Reminder for Anyone Traveling Overnight
If you must drive, slow down well below normal highway speeds, leave extra distance, and avoid sudden braking or lane changes. Keep headlights on, allow more time for trips, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions—especially if bands of snow intensify or winds begin pushing snow back onto already-treated roads.
Have you seen snow-covered roads or slide-offs in your area tonight? Share what conditions look like where you are, and help other readers stay alert by joining the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
