Marquette, Michigan – Roads across the Upper Peninsula could turn dangerously slick within hours as freezing rain develops late tonight, setting the stage for widespread power outages and travel disruptions.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, an Ice Storm Warning takes effect between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. depending on location, continuing through late Saturday morning or early afternoon. Ice accumulations between 0.10 and 0.40 inches are expected across much of the U.P., including Marquette, Escanaba, Iron Mountain, and Ontonagon, with wind gusts reaching up to 35 mph.
The heaviest icing is expected overnight into early Saturday, with roads such as US-41, M-28, and US-2 becoming coated quickly. Travel conditions will deteriorate rapidly, especially during the Friday evening commute and into early Saturday.
Tree limbs and power lines are likely to snap under the weight of ice, potentially leaving thousands without power. Areas near Lake Superior, including Marquette, may see slightly lower ice totals, but still enough to create hazardous conditions.
Residents should avoid unnecessary travel, charge devices, and prepare for extended outages. If travel is unavoidable, carry emergency supplies and monitor Michigan 511 for updates. Conditions begin improving by late Saturday, but lingering ice could continue to impact travel.
