Everyone believes that there are four seasons in Michigan. While that is technically true, a true Michigander knows there are actually 11 of them. What makes Michigan the crazy and wonderful state that it is is that the weather can change “change every five minutes”. This is a classic phrase that many Michiganders say often because it’s so true. We will break down each of these seasons for you to give an idea of how to prepare.
Actual Winter
This is the part of winter that comes around the holidays. It’s a joyful time where many folks welcome the colder temps with open arms and thick coats. You might find Michiganders saying things like “I love winters in Michigan.”
Fake Spring
Every year, there is a 1-week period after Actual Winter where the sun is shining and you might even get a couple of warm days. Some Michiganders say things like “maybe we’ll have a light winter this year”. But those Michiganders would be wrong most of the time.
Second Winter (or Winter Two)
This is the winter that tests Michiganders. Snow days come more consistently, and it’s also consistently cold and cloudy, causing some to question why they live where they do. Seasonal depression can occur for many. You might find some saying, “I hate winters in Michigan” and it might even be the same ones that said “I love winters in Michigan” back in Actual Winter.
Fools Spring (1-Week)
Ah yes, Fool’s Spring is a wonderful time of year. Michiganders get a glimpse of what Spring weather feels like once again. They essentially start coming out of hibernation. But this season doesn’t last too long, and the chilly, cloudy days return once again. Here is a video that explains this season perfectly:
Winter Three
Winter Three can sometimes bring out the worst weather in Michigan. This usually follows a warmer period of days (Fool’s Spring) and can include the coldest temps and largest snowfalls. You may find news stations mentioning a “Polar Vortex” during this season.
Wet Season
Spring needs its wet season to help all the plants grow and flowers bloom. This season is full of lots of rainy days. Pro Tip: Do not where white shoes ever during this season because they WILL get dirty.
Actual Spring
The weather stays consistently around the 50s-60s, and everything starts to bloom with life. Michiganders feel the energy of summer (the best season in Michigan) is coming soon.
Actual Summer
It’s truly the best time of the year. Michiganders are traveling all over the state and enjoying the lake and beachside towns (like Frankfort and Saugatuck) to the fullest. The weather is perfectly hot with a nice breeze during the day and not too cold during the night (perfect for sitting by a bonfire).
Fools Fall (1-2 Weeks)
After August, Michigan gets a 1-2 week stint of chillier weather than what’s typical in Actual Summer. This makes everyone think that Fall is here, but Michigan actually has some warmer days ahead before Michiganders can break out the cider and donuts.
Second Summer
Every year starting around late September, Michigan seems to get its warm weather back. The nights are cold but it’s shorts weather during the day. This time is a great opportunity to do last kayaking or tubing trips for the year before it actually get colder and layering clothing becomes a necessity.
Actual Fall
Fall in Michigan is the 2nd best part of the year for most as Michiganders start visiting cider mills, the leaves begin to change and turn Michigan into a colorful wonderland of reds, yellows, and oranges, and everyone begins preparing for the holidays.
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