News Photo by Josh Jambor Malichi Oberst, of Alpena, plays in the snow on Monday afternoon. Some of the area’s snow is expected to melt later this week, before freezing conditions move into the area.

ALPENA – With the memories of last winter’s ice storm still fresh in the minds of area residents, many pay closer attention to the weather forecast these days.

The weather later this week is potentially concerning because it could cause some light icing, but it is not expected to be anywhere near as severe as the region’s early spring ice storm that disrupted life for thousands of people in northern Michigan.

A warm front is forecasted to move into the area Thursday morning and temperatures could climb into the low 40s and be accompanied by rain.

Temperatures are expected to plunge into the teens on Friday and that could create icy roads and light ice coverings of ice on frees, power poles and everything else the rain soaks.

Meteorologist Harold Dippman, of the National Weather Service, Gaylord office, shared his thoughts on the potential for hazardous conditions this week.

“There will be an up and down pattern over the next few days. It is going to warm up, and then cool down,” Dippman said. “This warm front pushing in Thursday could be enough to melt the ice and snow.”

The amount of snow on the ground in Northeast Michigan has continued to climb, as light snow showers have occurred almost daily and temperatures have remained below freezing which has prevented any type of thaw.

Given the icy conditions on many of Alpena’s side roads now, Dippman explained why it could be a more of a problem looking ahead.

“The problem is the stuff that thaws throughout the day, is going to freeze again at night,” he said. ” Travel conditions on Friday morning could be very icy, with the northern portion of Alpena County possibly seeing some additional lake effect snowfall. The biggest concern is the cold punch on the other side of the warm weather front. The potential for icy roads and freezing conditions could present problems,”

The clean up from last year’s ice storm continues for many residents. With the potential for freezing rain, snow, and high winds on the way, Dippman said he can’t rule out that the weakened trees and infrastructure won’t be impacted by the upcoming weather system.

“It is not out of the question that the strong winds and freezing rain could drop trees, limbs, and branches. Particularly those still hanging on from the ice storm,” Dippman said.

With Christmas approaching, many residents are putting the finishing touches on their holiday travel plans. Dippman expressed uncertainty in predicting a white Christmas but expects our “seesaw like” weather to continue.

“We have been locked into a wintery weather system. With colder temps and more snow accumulation,” he said. ” I am expecting a quick shift resulting in a warm front. However, I do not expect that warm front to be persistent.”