Mackinac Bridge Shuts Down Again as Falling Ice Forces Morning Closure Across Northern Michigan
MICHIGAN — The Mackinac Bridge was closed again Thursday morning after dangerous falling ice created unsafe travel conditions across the span connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.
The latest closure occurred around 10:02 AM on February 19, 2026, marking another disruption tied to harsh winter weather impacting the Straits of Mackinac.
Falling Ice Creates Hazard Over the Straits
Bridge officials cited falling ice as the reason for the shutdown. During prolonged cold stretches, ice can accumulate along the suspension cables and tower structures. When temperatures fluctuate or winds increase, that ice can break loose and fall onto the roadway below.
Falling ice presents a serious threat to vehicles, especially passenger cars and light trucks crossing the nearly five-mile span over Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.
The bridge surface visible in the image shows snow-packed shoulders and icy patches along the roadway, underscoring how persistent winter conditions remain across northern Michigan.
Repeated Winter Closures Highlight Ongoing Cold Pattern
The Mackinac Bridge frequently faces restrictions during severe winter weather, including high winds, heavy snow, and ice buildup. However, closures specifically due to falling ice signal a prolonged stretch of cold air that allows thick accumulation to develop on the structure.
Recent weather patterns across the Great Lakes have featured extended cold spells and repeated storm systems, creating ideal conditions for ice formation along elevated surfaces like suspension bridges.
When ice accumulation becomes significant, authorities may fully close the bridge until temperatures stabilize or crews can ensure conditions are safe for motorists.
Travel Disruptions Expected for Upper and Lower Peninsula Traffic
The Mackinac Bridge is a critical transportation link for commercial trucks, emergency services, and daily travelers between Michigan’s peninsulas. Any closure can cause immediate delays, especially during daytime hours.
Motorists planning travel between St. Ignace and Mackinaw City were urged to monitor official updates and delay trips until the bridge safely reopens. Drivers are reminded that even after reopening, winter driving conditions may persist across the span and connecting roadways.
Winter Safety Reminder for Elevated Roadways
Falling ice is one of the more unpredictable winter hazards on large suspension bridges. Even when snowfall has ended, cold temperatures can allow ice to remain frozen for days before breaking free.
Officials advise drivers to:
- Monitor bridge authority updates before traveling
- Prepare for sudden closures during extreme winter weather
- Avoid unnecessary travel during ice-related advisories
As winter continues across the northern Great Lakes, additional weather-related impacts cannot be ruled out.
Have you experienced weather-related travel disruptions this winter? Share your experience and stay updated with the latest weather coverage at CabarrusWeekly.com.
