Massive 100-Plus Vehicle Pileup Shuts Down I-196 in Zeeland Township Amid Snow, Whiteout Conditions

Zeeland Township, MI — January 19, 2026 — A major multi-vehicle collision involving more than 100 cars and trucks brought large sections of Interstate 196 to a standstill Monday morning as dangerous winter weather slammed West Michigan.

Drivers encountered hazardous snow, high winds, and sudden whiteout conditions that made visibility nearly impossible, triggering a chain-reaction crash that stretched across multiple lanes of the highway.

Crash Unfolds in Treacherous Winter Weather

The pileup began around 10:19 a.m. near 64th Avenue in Zeeland Township, southeast of Grand Rapids. Heavy lake-effect snow combined with blowing winds created near-zero visibility, leaving drivers little time to react as traffic slowed and vehicles began colliding.

Authorities confirmed that more than 100 vehicles were involved, including an estimated 30 to 40 semi-trucks, many of which jackknifed on the icy roadway. The crash scene quickly grew as additional vehicles slid into already disabled traffic.

Emergency officials reported multiple injuries, with first responders treating victims at the scene and transporting others to nearby hospitals. As of the latest updates, no fatalities have been reported.

Highway Closure and Evacuations

Both eastbound and westbound lanes of I-196 were shut down between the Hudsonville and Zeeland exits as crews worked to clear wreckage and assist stranded motorists. Officials warned the closure could last several hours due to the scale of the crash and ongoing weather conditions.

With temperatures in the low teens and snow continuing to fall, drivers were instructed to remain inside their vehicles until they could be safely evacuated. School buses and public transit vehicles were brought in to transport motorists off the highway to a nearby high school, where they were given a warm place to wait and arrange transportation home.

Weather and Travel Advisory

Authorities urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel across West Michigan as the winter storm continued to produce heavy snowfall, strong winds, and whiteout conditions. Drivers were warned that even short trips could quickly turn dangerous as roads iced over and visibility dropped without warning.

State police emphasized that road conditions can change rapidly during lake-effect snow events, urging motorists to slow down, increase following distances, and stay off highways if possible.

Community and Emergency Response

Local fire departments, ambulance crews, and law enforcement seeing coordinated response worked throughout the afternoon to rescue motorists, treat injuries, and begin the long process of clearing the highway. School staff and community partners assisted with shelter and transportation, helping ensure stranded drivers were safe and warm.

The incident remains under investigation as cleanup efforts continue and officials assess the full impact of the storm on regional travel.