'Inclement weather' has closed the Mackinac Bridge this afternoon, reports the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Webcams courtesy the Mackinac Bridge Authority, as pictured above, show virtal whiteout conditions at the bridge as of about 2:30 p.m.
The closure comes after the bridge was placed under a 'wind escort' this morning, and highway closures due to a collision on the I-75.
The #MackinacBridge is temporarily closed due to a crash, and extremely poor visibility due to blowing snow. Emergency personnel are on the scene. Not clear at this time when the bridge will reopen. https://t.co/TAC5AJsWaF pic.twitter.com/1y1jbLdz28
— MDOT - Traverse Area (@MDOT_Traverse) February 12, 2019
The following news release was issued by MDOT this afternoon:
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Due to the current weather conditions, the Mackinac Bridge is closed to all traffic.
Motorists are being instructed to reduce their speed to 20 miles per hour as they approach the bridge and be prepared to stop. Bridge personnel are stationed at both ends of the structure to provide instructions.
The Mackinac Bridge Authority is monitoring conditions at various points along the structure. When conditions improve, the bridge will be reopened to traffic. If you are planning to travel to the Straits area, please tune to AM radio 530 or 1610 for updates.
Bridge deck slippery, use caution.
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