What’s the coldest it’s been in Michigan? Here’s how close we’ll get to the record

This story has been updated to include new information.

An Arctic surge expected to make temperatures as low as 20 below zero early next week still likely won’t come close to producing the coldest temperatures in Michigan history.

On Feb. 9, 1934, Vanderbilt, in Otsego County, recorded the all-time coldest temperature in Michigan — minus 51 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information.

As a polar air mass known as a Siberian Express spreads southward across the U.S. and Michigan, temperatures Sunday through Tuesday area expected to fall into the single digits and even below zero in many areas.

Parts of the Upper Peninsula, including Ironwood, could see temperatures as low at minus 20, the National Weather Service said. In the Lower Peninsula, temperatures will be below zero at times, but won’t approach 20 below.

Even though records may not be broken, the Michigan State Police said people should take precautions.

“With temperatures dropping below zero and dangerously cold wind chills on the way, it’s important to take extra steps to keep yourself and your loved ones safe,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of MSP/EMHSD. “Dress in layers, limit time outdoors, and check on your neighbors who might need extra help. Staying informed and prepared can make all the difference during extreme weather like this.”

Many Michigan cities and villages have gotten downright frigid during past winters. Here’s what we know.

Where in Michigan does it get coldest in the winter?

While Michigan hasn’t seen 20 below zero in a while, it’s not uncommon. Here’s a look at some records for January, according to the National Weather Service.

Lansing

• 1981: Minus 29
• 1984, 1976: Minus 25

Detroit

• 1976: Minus 25
• 1994: Minus 22

Saginaw

Grand Rapids

Marquette

• 1977: Minus 32
• 1963: Minus 30

Ironwood

• 1977: Minus 40
• 1972: Minus 39
• 1912: Minus 37

Houghton and Hancock

Bergland

• 1912: Minus 45
• 1915: Minus 40

Sault Ste. Marie

Gaylord

• 1984: Minus 31
• 1981: Minus 30

What is the coldest month in Michigan?

January is the coldest month in Michigan. Statewide, the average high is 31 degrees and the low 18.

Where in Michigan gets the most snow?

The highest recorded snowfall in a 24-hour period took place in Herman, southeast of L’Anse in the UP, which received 32 inches of snow on Dec. 2, 1985.

The Keweenaw is known for its prodigious snow totals.

The Keweenaw Snow Gauge, alongside U.S. 41 between Mohawk and Phoenix, is an iconic destination for travelers visiting the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Visit Keweenaw notes.

The Keweenaw’s record snowfall was set during the winter of 1978-79 when the Keweenaw received 390.4 inches of snow between November and April.

So far, more than 153 inches of snow has fallen in the area this year.

Contact Sarah Moore @smoorelsj.com