Marquette, Michigan – Slick roads could develop within hours across Upper Michigan as snow transitions to freezing rain early Wednesday morning, creating a light glaze on untreated surfaces before the midday commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, snow showers are mixing with freezing rain through the morning, with a 40 to 70 percent chance of light ice accumulation across western and central portions of the U.P. This includes areas from Ironwood to Houghton and inland toward Ishpeming, where bridges and secondary roads may become slippery.
Conditions briefly improve after noon as precipitation tapers, but that break will be short-lived. Rain quickly spreads back in by mid to late afternoon, with widespread totals between a quarter and half inch expected by late evening. Cities including Marquette, Escanaba, and Iron Mountain will see steady rainfall during the evening commute, increasing the risk of ponding on roads.
Southerly wind gusts between 30 and 40 mph will add another hazard, especially along the Lake Superior shoreline and higher terrain, where visibility may fluctuate and driving becomes more difficult.
Warmer air holds overnight into Thursday, ending icing concerns but increasing runoff. Creeks and rivers may begin rising heading into the weekend as additional rain develops.
Residents should use caution during the morning hours, secure loose outdoor items, and monitor for any updates as conditions evolve through tonight.
