Michigan, a state etched within the heart of the American Midwest, boasts a vibrant tapestry of renowned universities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich agricultural bounty. Its unique position bordering the Great Lakes fosters a thriving ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna. However, this captivating land also faces the relentless grip of winter, renowned for its formidable bite. These are the four coldest towns and cities in Michigan.
Muskegon – The historic harbor town of Muskegon, once a vital commercial port, now embraces both commerce and recreational pursuits. Famed for its sailing, rowing, and fishing industries, it also holds a place in Michigan’s frigid narrative. Over a century ago, in February 1899, its thermometers plunged to some of the state’s lowest documented temperatures.
Marquette – As we journey north, Marquette, the Upper Peninsula’s largest city, emerges on the shores of Lake Michigan. This vital port, renowned for its mining industry and transportation hub, endures February’s icy wrath. In 1979, it witnessed temperatures plummet to a bone-chilling -34 degrees Fahrenheit, a testament to the region’s harsh winters. While some relish the thrill of extreme outdoor activities, others opt for the gentler exploration of miles of snowshoe trails.
Sault Ste. Marie – Further north, Sault Ste. Marie, the Upper Peninsula’s second-most populous city, straddles the St. Mary’s River, forming part of the US-Canada border. In February 1934, it experienced the harsh reality of winter with temperatures dipping to a biting -37 degrees Fahrenheit, tying the record set in 1868 for the coldest in Michigan. Though such extremes may not be typical, their possibility remains a stark reminder of the region’s winter prowess.
Lansing – Surprisingly, the record for the lowest temperature in Michigan belongs not to the remote Upper Peninsula, but to the state capital, Lansing, home to Michigan State University. In February 1868, its thermometers registered a staggering -37 degrees Fahrenheit, a record matched only by Sault Ste. Marie in 1934.