Mackinac Bridge closed as ice threatens safety

The Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan's peninsulas via Interstate 75, was closed for a period due to safety concerns regarding large chunks of ice falling from the structure. This measure was taken after officials recognized the severity of the icy conditions, which had persisted throughout the week, causing intermittent closures. On Monday, the bridge had already undergone such a closure for several hours in response to the falling ice, and later that same week, another closure was announced. The Mackinac Bridge Authority noted that previous instances of ice falling have caused damage to maintenance vehicles. Fortunately, reports indicate that no injuries occurred during these events. The closures have become a necessary precaution given the extreme weather conditions that recently struck Northern Lower Michigan and parts of the Upper Peninsula. A severe ice storm was reported over the weekend, prompting officials to remain vigilant about the structural safety of the bridge. Alongside the closure, power outages were also expected to extend over the following days in some areas. The average duration of such closures generally lasts around five hours, during which the bridge is inspected for safety before it is reopened to traffic. Motorists who frequently travel across the bridge were advised to sign up for text alerts to stay informed about the status of the bridge. Officials noted that while the ice conditions posed significant falling hazards, there were no concerns regarding the weight or amount of ice on the bridge that would require an immediate shift in operational protocols for maintenance. This proactive approach underscores the importance of safety at the Mackinac Bridge, especially during extreme weather incidents that can lead to unpredictable and dangerous conditions.