Traverse City, Michigan – Roads across northern Lower Michigan could become treacherous within hours as a prolonged winter storm brings heavy snow, damaging ice buildup, and strong winds capable of knocking out power through Monday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late tonight through Monday evening across much of northern Lower Michigan. The storm may bring 5 to 12 inches of snow and sleet to areas including Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Kalkaska, Wexford, and Manistee counties, along with ice accumulations exceeding a quarter inch. Winds may gust up to 45 mph.
The heaviest snowfall is expected across the Lake Michigan shoreline and the Straits region. Communities including Petoskey, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Presque Isle could see 8 to 16 inches of snow, while Beaver Island may receive localized totals approaching 2 feet.
Further inland, cities such as Alpena, Roscommon, and West Branch may see lighter snowfall totals of 3 to 7 inches but still face significant icing that could coat roads, trees, and power lines.
Ice accumulation combined with gusty winds may snap tree branches and trigger scattered power outages across northern Michigan. Travel along U.S. 31, M-32, and I-75 could become extremely difficult, especially during the Monday morning and evening commutes.
Residents are urged to charge electronic devices, avoid unnecessary travel once conditions worsen, and prepare for possible power disruptions. Additional warnings or ice storm alerts could be issued as the system intensifies across the region.
