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Winter Storm Triggers Massive Pileup on Michigan Highway
MLN -20 JAN 2026: A powerful winter snowstorm caused a massive multi-vehicle crash involving roughly 100 cars and trucks on Interstate 196 in Zeeland Township, Michigan, on Monday, forcing authorities to shut down the highway in both directions, officials said.
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office said the pileup occurred near 64th Avenue and was reported shortly after 10:15 a.m. Eastern time. Emergency officials said hazardous road conditions and reduced visibility contributed to the crash, which stretched across a wide section of the interstate between Zeeland and Hudsonville.
Michigan State Police said an estimated 30 to 40 semitrucks were among the vehicles involved, with passenger cars scattered across and off the roadway. Ottawa County Emergency Management said there were numerous injuries, though no fatalities had been reported as of Monday afternoon.
First responders from multiple agencies worked in difficult weather conditions to reach motorists and provide medical assistance. Ambulance crews transported injured individuals to nearby hospitals, while fire and rescue teams searched vehicles amid blowing snow and icy winds, according to emergency officials.
Authorities arranged buses from Hudsonville Public Schools and local transit services in nearby Holland to transport stranded motorists to Hudsonville High School. Officials said those brought to the school were able to warm up, receive assistance, and arrange transportation home.
Emergency officials urged drivers still at the scene to remain inside their vehicles until directed to board buses, citing safety concerns and ongoing rescue operations. Ottawa County offices closed at 3 p.m. due to the storm, and residents were advised to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly along the affected stretch of I.196.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer cautioned residents to use extreme care on the roads, noting that state transportation crews were working continuously to manage hazardous conditions. The Michigan Department of Transportation said road crews remained active despite state offices being closed for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.
Officials said the highway would remain closed until vehicles are cleared and conditions improve, with further updates expected as cleanup efforts continue.
