Rare Snow Rollers Make Appearance In Michigan

Published: Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 8:02 am

Rare Snow Rollers Spotted in Michigan

Michigan residents were treated to a rare natural phenomenon this week: the appearance of snow rollers. These unusual formations, resembling cylindrical snow spirals, were spotted in a yard on Tuesday. The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed the sighting, highlighting the rarity of this meteorological event.

Snow rollers form under very specific atmospheric conditions. They require a thin layer of fresh snow that is cohesive enough to stick to itself but not to the underlying surface. Additionally, the wind must be strong enough to initiate the rolling action, creating the characteristic spiral shape, but gentle enough to avoid destroying the delicate structures.

Photographs taken Tuesday evening show that snow rollers can develop on both uphill and downhill slopes. The NWS encourages anyone who encounters these rare formations to take a moment to appreciate them, as they cannot be artificially created.

In related weather news, the Daily Caller is tracking an atmospheric river impacting California. This weather system is expected to bring a series of storms, including rain, snow, and strong winds, starting Sunday. The forecast indicates an increased risk of flash flooding, particularly in Northern California, throughout the week. This atmospheric river also offers a respite to the Pacific Northwest, which has recently experienced severe weather.

BNN's Perspective:

The appearance of snow rollers serves as a fascinating reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature. While the focus on rare events like snow rollers is interesting, it's crucial to balance this with reporting on more impactful weather events, such as the atmospheric river affecting California. A balanced approach to weather reporting ensures the public is informed about both the unusual and the potentially dangerous conditions they may face.

Keywords: snow rollers, Michigan, National Weather Service, NWS, weather, atmospheric river, California, flash flooding, snow, wind, rare, meteorological event, Pacific Northwest

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