WASHINGTON: A powerful winter storm sweeping across parts of the United States caused a 100-vehicle pile-up in Michigan on Monday, leaving dozens injured and prompting authorities to close a major interstate.
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Michigan State Police said that while numerous injuries were reported, none were believed to be fatal. The crash occurred along the I-196 corridor near Zeeland in West Michigan, involving between 30 and 40 articulated lorries and dozens of passenger vehicles.
🛑 Michigan: A terrifying 100+ vehicle pileup caused by severe storm conditions. Roads are extremely dangerous. Stay safe. pic.twitter.com/SLg0wyGti2
— Silent Politics◾️ (@silentpolitics1) January 19, 2026
Images shared on social media showed trucks and cars stacked along snow-covered lanes and lodged in roadside ditches as emergency personnel worked to assess damage and treat the injured. Officials said many drivers lost control in “multiple slide-offs” amid poor visibility and icy surfaces.
The interstate remained shut for hours as authorities deployed heavy machinery and tow trucks to remove stranded vehicles and clear debris. Police urged residents to avoid travel and warned that rescue operations and road clearance would take time due to extreme conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) said southwest and west-central Michigan continued to experience “snow and blowing snow,” reducing visibility and making road surfaces slick. Overnight snowfall was forecast to add up to four inches, bringing storm totals to as high as 14 inches in some areas.
Temperatures were expected to plunge to -8 degrees Fahrenheit (-22 degrees Celsius) with wind chill, heightening risks for motorists stranded in the region. Local officials called the situation “treacherous” and advised residents to remain indoors unless travel was essential.
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Winter weather advisories remained in effect across several northern states as the storm system continued tracking east. Authorities said they would reassess road reopenings once conditions stabilised and wreckage had been removed.