Thunderstorm Drops Hail Across Michigan

Severe weather brings quarter-size hail, freezing rain, and heavy snow to the state

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Michigan experienced wild winter weather on Wednesday, February 18, with a late-afternoon thunderstorm producing quarter-size and larger hail in southeast Michigan, while the Upper Peninsula saw freezing rain and up to 16 inches of snow.

Why it matters

Severe weather events like this can cause property damage, disrupt transportation, and pose risks to public safety. The mix of hail, freezing rain, and heavy snow highlights the unpredictable nature of Michigan's weather patterns.

The details

The severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the Detroit National Weather Service office starting at 6 p.m. on February 18, with reports of hail ranging from 0.5 to 1.25 inches in diameter across central and southeast Michigan. Meanwhile, the Upper Peninsula saw 0.01-0.25 inches of freezing rain and heavy snow, with Allouez Township in the Keweenaw Peninsula receiving 16 inches as of February 19.

  • On February 18, a severe thunderstorm warning was issued starting at 6 p.m.
  • On February 19, Allouez Township in the Keweenaw Peninsula had received 16 inches of snow.

The players

Detroit National Weather Service

The local office of the National Weather Service that issued the severe thunderstorm warning for southeast Michigan.

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What’s next

The Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula are expected to see another round of mixed precipitation, including snow, rain, freezing rain, and sleet, starting late on Thursday, February 19 and lasting through Friday, February 20.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the unpredictable nature of Michigan's winter climate, with a mix of hail, freezing rain, and heavy snow impacting different regions of the state. Residents should stay vigilant and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.