500 Crashes in Genesee County in Just Five Days

It has been a brutally cold winter, and there is still no relief in sight. In addition to the snow, ice, and wind, drivers around Flint and Mid-Michigan have also been dealing with terrible road conditions. It seems that every time road crews are able to clear the roads, blowing snow quickly covers them again. In other cases, fresh snow piles on top of what is already on the ground.

Why Road Salt Stops Working in Extreme Cold

With high temperatures staying well below freezing, keeping roads treated has become a major challenge. Road salt becomes far less effective once temperatures drop below 20 degrees and essentially stops working at 15 degrees or colder, according to a report from Cargill.

That makes it extremely difficult for road crews to keep up with Mother Nature, triggering accidents and even massive pileups across Michigan. Lately, it feels like there is a freeway closure almost every day.

Get our free mobile app

When temperatures plunge this low, salt can no longer melt ice effectively. Instead of breaking down icy surfaces, it simply sits on the road, leaving drivers with slick and unpredictable conditions.

Crash Numbers Surge Across Genesee County

Tim Jones, director of the Genesee County 911 Authority, told ABC 12 there has been a significant increase in weather related crashes. On an average day, Genesee County typically sees between 20 and 30 accidents.

However, between Thursday of last week and Monday, January 26, 2026, that number more than tripled. In just five days, there were 521 accidents reported in Genesee County alone.

Why Roads Will Stay Slippery for Now

The combination of extreme cold and persistent snow has caused widespread travel delays and school closings across Michigan and other parts of the country. While the Genesee County Road Commission continues working around the clock to clear roads for Flint area drivers, officials warn that some roads will remain slippery until temperatures begin to rise.

US-23 Closed Due to Crash

Northbound US-23 was closed and caused delays for for hours this morning due to a crash south of Hill Road.

Gallery Credit: Jeremy Fenech

3 Michigan Cities That Combat Ice and Snow with Heated Sidewalks

Not only are Michigan winters wet and cold, but they're downright dangerous! From power outages and slipping hazards, to carbon monoxide poisoning-- what isn't trying to kill us this time of the year? These 3 Michigan cities keep sidewalks clear thanks to an underground snowmelt system.

Gallery Credit: Lauren Gordon