M-28 across the eastern Upper Peninsula is seeing hazardous travel conditions Wednesday as lake-effect snow intensifies.
According to the National Weather Service office in Marquette, lake-effect snow is ramping back up today with heavy snow bands developing over the eastern Upper Peninsula, particularly along and north of M-28 from Munising eastward toward Newberry. Snowfall rates within the strongest bands may reach 1 inch per hour, with visibility dropping to as low as one-quarter mile at times.
Forecasters say the most persistent and impactful snow is expected over eastern Alger County, northern Schoolcraft County, and northern Luce County, where bands are forecast to shift westward toward Munising later today. These conditions are likely to cause difficult driving, especially during daytime travel when snow rates briefly intensify.
In addition to heavy snowfall, blowing and drifting snow is expected across portions of the Upper Peninsula, particularly near Lake Superior and over the Keweenaw Peninsula. Gusty winds may further reduce visibility on exposed roadways, including M-28 and nearby rural highways.
Farther west, including parts of the Copper Country, lighter to occasionally moderate snow is forecast through this afternoon. While accumulations there are expected to be lower, slick roads and brief visibility reductions remain possible.
The National Weather Service notes that snowfall totals will vary significantly depending on how long snow bands remain over any one location. Some areas under persistent bands could see notably higher totals than nearby communities.
Drivers are urged to allow extra travel time, slow down, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, especially when traveling east of Munising. This may be particularly impactful for commuters, delivery drivers, and those traveling between communities along M-28.
Additional updates are expected as snow bands evolve through tonight.
