Marquette, Michigan – Travel across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula could become difficult overnight and into Wednesday morning as lake effect snow and strong winds continue to impact multiple counties, bringing several inches of accumulation and reduced visibility.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect across much of the western and central Upper Peninsula. Gogebic, Ontonagon, Keweenaw, and northern Houghton counties could see 3 to 6 inches of lake effect snow through Wednesday morning, while Baraga and Marquette counties may pick up between 3 and 7 inches, especially in higher terrain between Marquette and L’Anse and north of U.S. 41.
Alger County is also under an advisory through Wednesday afternoon, with 3 to 5 inches of snow possible. Northwest winds gusting up to 45 mph are expected across the region, creating areas of blowing and drifting snow that could sharply reduce visibility, particularly along open stretches of road.
The hazardous conditions are likely to affect the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Roads may quickly become snow covered, and visibility can change rapidly as lake effect bands shift. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches, leading to isolated power disruptions.
Farther south, Delta and Menominee counties are dealing with a different threat early Tuesday. A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through mid-morning for a mix of snow and ice, with up to one inch of snow and a light glaze possible, creating slick road conditions.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Lake effect snow can vary greatly over short distances, and even brief heavy bands can make travel dangerous.
Snow and wind impacts are expected to gradually ease later Wednesday, but additional advisories could be issued if lake effect bands persist longer than expected.
