Winter Storm Watch Issued for Michigan Ahead of Snow and Rain

Significant snowfall and ice accumulations expected in northern parts of the state, while heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast for the south.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Watches for a large swath of Michigan ahead of a major storm system expected to bring a mix of snow, ice, and heavy rain to the state starting Tuesday night and continuing through Wednesday. The northern parts of Michigan, including the Upper Peninsula and the Tip of the Mitt region, are forecast to see several inches of snow and significant ice accumulations, while the southern half of the state is expected to experience thunderstorms and heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flooding.

Why it matters

This storm system has the potential to cause significant disruptions across Michigan, with the possibility of downed trees and power lines due to high winds, as well as hazardous travel conditions and potential flooding. The varying weather patterns across the state also highlight the challenges in preparing for and responding to complex winter weather events.

The details

The storm is expected to begin on Tuesday night and last through much of Wednesday. The National Weather Service in Gaylord has forecast a high potential for 4 inches or more of snow in the eastern Upper Peninsula and the Tip of the Mitt region, as well as a high potential for 0.1 inches or more of ice accumulations across the northern Lower Peninsula. In the middle area between the snow and rain sections, there is a risk of freezing rain, sleet, and heavier ice accumulations. In the southern parts of the state, thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected, with the potential for localized flooding.

  • The storm system is expected to begin on Tuesday night and last through much of Wednesday.
  • The National Weather Service issued Winter Storm Watches on February 17, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and watches in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“A storm system will bring mixed precipitation to much of northern Michigan starting Tuesday evening and lasting through much of Wednesday. There is high potential for 4' or more of snow across eastern Upper Peninsula and high potential for 0.1' or more of ice accumulations across the northern Lower Peninsula. Parts of northwest and north-central lower Michigan have a low chance to see icing in excess of a quarter inch.”

— National Weather Service, Forecast notes (National Weather Service in Gaylord)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm system and provide updates on the expected snowfall, ice accumulations, and potential for flooding as the event unfolds.

The takeaway

This complex winter storm highlights the need for Michigan residents to stay informed about rapidly changing weather conditions and to be prepared for potential power outages, hazardous travel, and other disruptions that may occur as a result of the mixed precipitation and high winds.