Gaylord, MI – Drivers across Northern Michigan could face sharply reduced visibility and snow-covered highways Friday as accumulating and blowing snow spreads across the region late Thursday night and intensifies through the day.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, several inches of snow are possible from Thursday night through Friday evening, with the heaviest snowfall expected Friday morning through Friday afternoon. Gusty winds will likely whip fresh snowfall across roadways, creating drifting snow and sudden visibility drops across both Northern Lower Michigan and the eastern Upper Peninsula.
Communities from Traverse City and Petoskey to Gaylord and Grayling could see steady snow Friday, while heavier totals may fall near the Straits and eastern Upper Peninsula, including St. Ignace, Sault Ste. Marie and Drummond Island. Forecasters indicate some areas could exceed 6 inches, especially north of the Mackinac Bridge.
Travel along I-75, US-131 and US-2 may become hazardous as blowing snow develops. The Mackinac Bridge corridor is particularly vulnerable to strong crosswinds and drifting snow that can reduce visibility quickly. Drivers should allow extra travel time, keep headlights on and avoid unnecessary trips during periods of heavier snow.
Residents are encouraged to charge mobile devices, keep emergency supplies in vehicles and monitor local road advisories as conditions change through Friday.
Additional updates and potential advisories may be issued as the system approaches late Thursday.
