Detroit, Michighan, United States, February 20:
A surreal and hazardous phenomenon has struck Detroit this week, as floodwaters from a rapid thaw and heavy rainfall froze solid overnight, encasing parts of the city in a treacherous layer of ice. The National Weather Service (NWS) described the event as a “frozen flood,” an unusual occurrence triggered by extreme temperature swings that have upended life in southeastern Michigan.
The crisis began earlier this week when unseasonably warm temperatures—reaching 50°F (10°C)—combined with heavy rain and melting snow, resulting the damage of drainage systems, flooding neighborhoods along the Detroit River and Interstate 94 corridors. By Wednesday, nearly 3 inches of rain had fallen, submerging streets and basements in low-lying areas such as Jefferson-Chalmers and Southwest Detroit.
However, the situation turned more critical on Thursday night as an Arctic cold front plunged temperatures to a bone-chilling 10°F (-12°C). The sudden freeze transformed standing floodwaters into big ice sheets, trapping cars mid-submersion and coating roads, sidewalks, and trees in a glass-like glaze.
Authorities scrambled to address the dual threat of ice and water. The Detroit Fire Department conducted multiple rescues for drivers stranded in partially frozen flood zones, while the Michigan State Police urged residents to avoid travel. “This isn’t just black ice—it’s uneven, unstable, and hiding deep water,” warned Chief James White of the Detroit Police Department.
Over 50,000 homes lost power as ice-laden tree branches snapped onto power lines, and Detroit’s Public Works Department faced criticism for delayed salt distribution. Hospitals reported a spike in slip-and-fall injuries, and the Detroit Public Schools Community District canceled classes for two days.
With temperatures expected to hover below freezing for days, officials warn that thawing efforts could worsen ice buildup. Crews are using industrial-grade steam equipment to melt ice-blocked drains, while community groups distribute sandbags and emergency supplies.
“This is a wake-up call,” said Mayor Mike Duggan at a press conference, announcing plans to upgrade aging drainage infrastructure. “We must prepare for the unexpected.”
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