Sun Dec 28 11:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article adaptation:
Summary:
Southeast Michigan experienced a period of freezing rain on December 26th, 2025. Ice accumulation varied, with most areas seeing a light glaze to 0.25 inches, but some localized areas experienced higher amounts, leading to downed tree branches and power outages affecting around 40,000 customers across the state. I-75 and the Zilwaukee Bridge were temporarily closed due to icy conditions and accidents. The event was caused by a low-pressure system, a warm nose aloft, and a shallow cold layer at the surface, contributing to freezing rain. Thunderstorms and pea-sized hail were also reported. Precipitation was heavy with significant runoff due to mild surface temperatures at times. Flint broke a daily precipitation record.
News Article:
Freezing Rain Cripples Southeast Michigan, Leaving Thousands Without Power
Detroit/Pontiac, MI – A winter storm brought freezing rain to Southeast Michigan on December 26th, 2025, causing widespread disruptions, power outages, and hazardous travel conditions. Ice accumulations generally ranged from a light glaze to a quarter of an inch, but some areas experienced heavier icing, leading to downed tree limbs and power lines. Approximately 40,000 customers across the state are without electricity as a result.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) was forced to close portions of I-75, including the Zilwaukee Bridge in Saginaw County, due to numerous accidents caused by the treacherous icy conditions. Motorists were urged to avoid travel if possible.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Detroit/Pontiac, the freezing rain was caused by a compact low-pressure system tracking across the Great Lakes. This weather pattern created a “warm nose” aloft, with temperatures above freezing in the mid-levels of the atmosphere, while a shallow layer of cold air remained near the surface, resulting in rain that froze upon contact with the ground. The event also featured thunderstorms and pea-sized hail.
Despite the widespread icing, the NWS noted that ice accretion efficiency was relatively low due to surface temperatures hovering around the freezing mark and heavy rainfall that caused significant runoff. Flint, MI, experienced a record-breaking amount of liquid precipitation, surpassing the previous record set in 1973.
The NWS continues to monitor the situation and advises residents to exercise caution while traveling and to report any downed power lines or hazards to local authorities. Utility companies are working to restore power to affected areas, but full restoration may take time.
First Piper 