Sheets of freezing rain cover roads as ice storm pounds Northern Lower Michigan [PHOTOS]

An Ice Storm Warning for the northern part of the lower peninsula is creating dangerous road conditions throughout multiple counties on Tuesday as police and weather officials urge all drivers to stay off the roads.
Photo credit Michigan State Police - Northern Michigan

GREAT LAKES BAY REGION (WWJ) - An Ice Storm Warning for the northern part of the lower peninsula is creating dangerous road conditions throughout multiple counties on Tuesday as police and weather officials urge all drivers to stay off the roads.

For travelers thinking of heading up north today, authorities say don't.

An Ice Storm Warning for the northern part of the lower peninsula is creating dangerous road conditions throughout multiple counties on Tuesday as police and weather officials urge all drivers to stay off the roads.
Photo credit Michigan State Police - Northern Michigan

"Travel could be nearly impossible," meteorologists in Alpena warned. Weather authorities said significant icing in is expected in Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Crawford, Oscoda, Alcona, Manistee, Wexford, Missaukee, Gladwin, Arenac, Roscommon, Ogemaw and Iosco Counties -- all of which are currently under an Ice Storm Warning in effect from now until midnight.

Ice is predicted to accumulate to 1/10 to 4/10 of an inch throughout the day. Heavy ice sheets on powerlines and trees can cause outages and downed limbs -- drivers are especially at risk for treacherous conditions on roadways come the evening commute.

An Ice Storm Warning for the northern part of the lower peninsula is creating dangerous road conditions throughout multiple counties on Tuesday as police and weather officials urge all drivers to stay off the roads.
Photo credit Michigan State Police - Northern Michigan

As temperatures fight to stay just above or at freezing, the Michigan State Police are telling all drivers to stay home.

"Vehicles are sliding off the roadway even when stopped. More ice, sleet & rain is expected this afternoon. Stay safe, stay home," MSP tweeted earlier.

Weather authorities said if you must travel during the storm, make sure you have a full tank of gas and pack a flashlight, blanket, food and water in your vehicle in the event of an emergency situation.

Residents are being advised to prepare for possible power outages.

For more about preparing for a winter/ice storm, please visit the Michigan State Police's website.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Michigan State Police- Northern Michigan