Massive Winter Pileup Shuts Down I-196 in Michigan

Tue Jan 20 2026 02:02:15 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

More than 100 vehicles, including over 30 semitrailer trucks, were involved in a massive crash caused by heavy snowfall in Hudsonville, Michigan. The accident led to widespread injuries but no fatalities reported.

On Monday morning in Hudsonville, Michigan, a severe winter storm set off a dramatic pileup involving over 100 vehicles on Interstate 196. The Michigan State Police responded swiftly, closing both directions of the highway to facilitate the removal of crashed vehicles and to assist stranded motorists. Injuries were reported, but fortunately, there were no fatalities. As the storm moved across the country, similar weather warnings are issued for several states, including freezing temperatures in the southern U.S.

HUDSONVILLE, Mich. (PulseWire) — Over 100 vehicles collided in a massive pileup triggered by lake-effect snow in Michigan on Monday. The incident unfolded early in the morning, prompting the Michigan State Police to close Interstate 196 in both directions near Grand Rapids while responders worked to clear the scene.

Among the wreckage were over 30 semitrailer trucks, and while numerous injuries were reported, thankfully no fatalities occurred. Stranded motorists were evacuated and taken to Hudsonville High School to arrange rides and seek assistance.

This wreck marks just one of many incidents linked to a relentless winter storm affecting states from northern Minnesota to the southern reaches of Florida, with the National Weather Service issuing alerts for extreme cold and winter weather conditions. The system raised concerns among residents as far south as the Florida Panhandle, complicating local events including playoff football games.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s office noted multiple reports of jack-knifed semis and numerous cars sliding off the icy roads. Officials now anticipate a lengthy cleanup process lasting several hours.