Mackinac Bridge Closed for Third Straight Day as Falling Ice and Whiteout Conditions Shut Down 5-Mile Span in Michigan
MICHIGAN — The Mackinac Bridge remains closed for the third consecutive day as of 12:40 PM due to falling ice and hazardous winter conditions, according to bridge officials.
The iconic five-mile suspension bridge connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas has once again disappeared into near-whiteout conditions, with heavy snow and ice accumulation forcing traffic to halt for safety.
Falling Ice Prompts Ongoing Closure
Bridge authorities confirmed the shutdown is due to falling ice from the structure — a known hazard during prolonged winter storms when ice builds up on cables and towers.
When temperatures fluctuate or winds increase, chunks of ice can break loose and fall onto the roadway below, creating dangerous conditions for drivers.
This marks the third straight day the Mackinac Bridge has been closed, underscoring the severity and persistence of the winter weather impacting the Straits of Mackinac.
Whiteout Conditions Swallow the Span
Webcam images timestamped around 12:35 PM show visibility reduced to near zero across portions of the bridge.
In one view, the massive suspension towers are barely visible through blowing snow. In another, the roadway appears coated in snow with vehicles stopped before the span. A separate angle shows the bridge fading into a wall of white over icy waters.
The Mackinac Bridge stretches approximately five miles across the Straits, and in conditions like these, it can seemingly vanish from sight — a dramatic but dangerous reminder of Michigan’s harsh winter environment.
Travel Disruptions Continue
The Mackinac Bridge is a critical transportation link between Michigan’s peninsulas, handling thousands of vehicles daily. Extended closures can significantly impact commercial traffic, local travel, and tourism.
Drivers planning to cross are urged to monitor official updates before traveling, as reopening decisions depend on:
- Ice accumulation levels
- Wind conditions
- Visibility
- Ongoing safety assessments
Bridge crews must ensure falling ice risk has diminished before allowing traffic to resume.
Winter’s Grip Still Firm
While late February often hints at seasonal transition, conditions across northern Michigan show winter remains firmly in control. Falling ice closures are not uncommon during intense cold and lake-effect snow events, but multi-day shutdowns highlight just how persistent this stretch of weather has been.
Officials will continue monitoring structural conditions and weather trends before announcing any reopening timeline. For continued weather and travel impact updates from across the country, stay connected with CabarrusWeekly.com.
