MACKINAW CITY, Mich. – The Mackinac Bridge was closed on Monday, March 31, 2025, due to falling ice, marking the second closure since the weekend. The Mackinac Bridge Authority announced the closure at approximately 2:25 p.m. after maintenance staff observed ice forming on the bridge's grating. This extreme weather event is a direct result of a significant ice storm that swept through much of Northern Michigan, prompting Governor Gretchen Whitmer to declare a state of emergency across several counties.
As of 2:30 p.m. on the same day, the bridge was entirely off-limits to all vehicles. The Mackinac Bridge Authority described the ice conditions as unprecedented, stating in a social media post that the ice was "the worst we've ever seen on the bridge." This alarming assessment underscores the potential dangers posed by falling ice, which can include large sheets and chunks that have been known to cause serious damage to vehicles.
The Mackinac Bridge has a history of closures due to ice, with the authority reporting that it has shut down 29 times in the past 30 years because of similar concerns. The duration of these closures has varied widely, from as little as 37 minutes to over 20 hours. This latest closure comes just two days after the bridge was first shut down on Saturday, March 29, due to ice hazards.
Motorists have been urged to stay updated on bridge conditions via the Mackinac Bridge Authority's official website and social media channels. The authority provides real-time updates, including alerts for those who sign up for text notifications through the RAVE Alert System by texting “MacBridge” to 67283.
Following the initial closure, the bridge was reopened to traffic on Monday evening after safety assessments were completed. An update from the Mackinac Bridge Authority at 5:37 p.m. confirmed that there were no significant weather conditions affecting the bridge at that time. Travelers were advised that conditions had improved sufficiently to allow safe passage.
However, the threat of falling ice remains a serious concern. According to a 2022 report from the Mackinac Bridge Authority, ice chunks, sheets, and spears can fall from the bridge's towers and cables, posing risks not only to vehicles but also to the occupants within them. Past incidents have resulted in damages to cars and, in some cases, injuries.
The bridge, which connects Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas, is a vital transportation link, and its safety is paramount. The authority has previously utilized maintenance vehicles to shake loose ice from the bridge, a practice that highlights the bridge's unique challenges during harsh winter weather.
In light of the recent storm and subsequent ice fall, the governor's declaration of a state of emergency affects several counties, including Otsego, Oscoda, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Crawford, Mackinac, and Alpena. This declaration allows for expedited access to resources and assistance for affected areas.
As the Mackinac Bridge Authority continues to monitor the situation, officials are encouraging residents and travelers to remain vigilant and heed safety warnings. The bridge's closure, while inconvenient, is a necessary precaution to ensure public safety amid unpredictable ice conditions.
Reports indicate that the Mackinac Bridge Authority is actively working to maintain the bridge and prevent future closures. Their commitment to safety and transparency is evident as they provide ongoing updates to the public.
For those planning to travel to or from the Upper Peninsula, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest developments regarding the Mackinac Bridge. The bridge's importance as a major thoroughfare cannot be understated, especially during peak travel seasons.
As the winter weather continues to impact Michigan, residents are reminded to prepare for potential disruptions and to prioritize safety as conditions evolve. The Mackinac Bridge Authority is dedicated to keeping the bridge open and safe for all users, but cooperation from the public is essential during these challenging weather events.
