Winter Storm Devastates Michigan, US: Travel Alert Issued As Many Vehicles Pile Up On I-75

Published on December 30, 2025

A powerful winter storm hit Monday and caused chaos in the northern regions of Michigan, US, resulting in the catastrophe of a vehicle crash on Interstate 75 in Detroit. There were more than fifty vehicles stacked up together in the incident, among which were a few semi-trucks, and all of these happened around eleven a.m. when a sudden snow squall made it very hard to drive. The mass of vehicles that got caught up in the accident led to the closure of the highway for several hours, which, in turn, caused considerable inconvenience to both daily commuters and long-distance travellers.

The Chaos Unfolds on I-75

According to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the crash involved 59 vehicles in total, including both passenger cars and large trucks. The incident occurred on the northbound side of I-75 and was one of several accidents in the region on that fateful morning. Michigan State Police reported approximately 25 separate crashes, many of which involved multiple cars and trucks. Thankfully, the accident resulted in only one minor injury, but authorities warned that the situation could have been much worse.

Authorities closed the highway for several hours to clear the wreckage, only reopening it at 4:30 p.m. after extensive salt and ploughing operations. The region was struck by a snow squall, a brief yet intense weather event marked by rapid snow accumulation and poor visibility. These conditions make driving particularly hazardous, as gusty winds and heavy snow can reduce visibility to near zero within minutes.

The Winter Storm’s Impact on Tourism and Travellers

The storm not only disrupted local traffic but also had a considerable impact on tourism in the area. Key destinations, including Detroit’s cultural landmarks and nearby nature reserves, were affected by both the weather and the road closures. Some popular tourist destinations at risk include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Zoo, and the Henry Ford Museum. Tourists attempting to visit these iconic spots found themselves stuck in traffic or unable to reach their destinations due to the snow squall and subsequent accidents.

The weather has disrupted travel plans for visitors, many of whom had arrived in Michigan for post-holiday vacations. Reports of delayed flights at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) have emerged, as icy conditions made it difficult for aircraft to take off and land. Tourists trying to navigate through snow-covered roads faced hazardous conditions, with accidents becoming more frequent as visibility worsened.

Key Safety Protocols for Tourists and Travellers

In light of these dangerous weather conditions, it is crucial for travellers to adhere to specific safety protocols:

• Avoid Travel During Snow Squalls: If you are in Michigan during a snow squall, stay indoors or delay travel until conditions improve.
• Slow Down and Increase Following Distance: Always reduce speed to match road conditions, and increase your following distance. This will give you more time to react in case of sudden stops.
• Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle has essentials like blankets, water, food, and a first-aid kit in case you get stranded.
• Listen to Local Authorities: Pay attention to warnings from the Michigan Department of Transportation and Michigan State Police regarding road conditions and closures.
• Monitor Weather Updates: Stay updated on the latest weather forecasts from official sources such as the NWS and MDOT for real-time information.

As the storm continues, officials are urging tourists to exercise caution when travelling, especially in areas known to be prone to snow squalls and ice storms.

Tourist Destinations Affected by the Storm

Several popular tourist destinations in Michigan, including Detroit, have been directly impacted by the ongoing winter storm. Aside from the aforementioned cultural landmarks in Detroit, other popular locations affected include:

1. Mackinac Island: Known for its scenic views and Victorian architecture, the island may face disruptions in ferry services due to the snowstorm and icy waters.
2. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: This natural gem in northern Michigan is likely to experience blizzard conditions, making it unsafe for visitors to explore.
3. Traverse City: Famous for its vineyards and winter sports, this area has already seen delays due to snowfall, with many tourists opting to stay indoors.
4. Ann Arbor: Known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, Ann Arbor is experiencing disruptions in both local travel and tourism activities.

Travellers visiting these destinations should reconsider their travel plans during the height of the storm, as snow accumulation and blizzard-like conditions continue to make conditions dangerous.

The Ongoing Threat of Winter Weather

The storm’s impact extends far beyond the immediate crash scene on I-75. The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings for parts of Michigan, including areas near Lake Michigan, as powerful winds and snow continue to sweep across the region. Blizzard warnings are in effect for nearby states like Minnesota and Wisconsin, where 250,000 customers have already lost power due to hurricane-force winds. The storm has disrupted daily life and led to travel delays across the region, with icy roads contributing to a growing number of accidents.

Looking Ahead: What Tourists Need to Know

For tourists currently in Michigan, safety remains the top priority. The storm is expected to continue to impact the region for the next few days, with worsening conditions anticipated. Authorities recommend staying informed through official weather updates and refraining from unnecessary travel.

The aftermath of the storm may also lead to extended recovery times, particularly on popular highways like I-75, which was heavily affected by the crash. MDOT and Michigan State Police have committed to ensuring that affected roads are cleared as quickly as possible, but it may take time for things to return to normal.

What Next?

The winter storm after the holidays that led to the pile-up on I-75 in Detroit has reminded us that it is very important to remain safe when severe weather strikes. The storm affected a lot of travelers and tourists, and thus, it is good to be guided by safety measures, well-informed, and take the necessary precautions so that you do not end up in a dangerous situation. While the storm continues to unfold, tourists are advised to keep their guard up and pay close attention to the situation.