The Ice Tsunami of 1946 — This Month In History

The Ice Tsunami of 1946 — This Month In History

March 2025 Issue of The MMM

When Ice Crushed 100 Cottages Along Saginaw Bay

On March 9, 1946, a powerful windstorm pushed massive ice floes onto Killarney and Ricomo Beaches along Saginaw Bay, about five miles north of Bay City. Within hours, towering 40-foot walls of ice surged inland, crushing over 100 cottages in their path.

This rare and dramatic phenomenon, often called an "ice tsunami," has only happened a handful of times in recorded history—most notably in 1946, 1948, 1952, 1968, 1970, and 1984. The event remains one of the most unforgettable weather disasters in Mid-Michigan history.

🌊 Did You Know?

While ice shoves are unpredictable, they occur when strong winds and fluctuating temperatures cause large sheets of ice to break apart and pile up along shorelines.

📖 Want more Mid-Michigan history?

Check out the full March 2025 Issue of Mid-Michigan Monthly:

🔗 Read it here: Click to view

Mid-Michigan Monthly – Sponsored by Custom Maids

At Custom Maids, we love celebrating Mid-Michigan’s rich history while keeping homes sparkling clean. If your home could use a fresh start this season, let us take care of the deep cleaning for you!

🧹 Get a fast cleaning quote today: Custom Maids Cleaning Quote

Back to blog

Leave a comment