Weather
Michigan Weather Alert: 3-10 Inches, Slick US-41 Friday Morning
Marquette, MI – Lake effect snow is intensifying across northern Michigan, with isolated Upper Peninsula locations facing up to 10 inches of additional accumulation by Friday. Farther south, another r
By Erin Vale · 2026-11-12T20:31:47.050Z
Marquette, MI – Lake effect snow is intensifying across northern Michigan, with isolated Upper Peninsula locations facing up to 10 inches of additional accumulation by Friday. Farther south, another round of snow threatens the Traverse City region, raising concerns about slippery highways and the Friday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Marquette and Gaylord, Winter Weather Advisories cover portions of both Michigan peninsulas as cold air moves across the Great Lakes.
The heaviest snowfall is expected inland from Lake Superior, where persistent snow bands could produce substantial accumulations.
Up to 10 Inches Possible in Michigan's Upper Peninsula The National Weather Service in Marquette reports that higher elevations of Baraga and Marquette counties could receive an additional 3 to 7 inches of snow.
Isolated rural locations north of U.S. 41 and west of Marquette County Road 510 could receive up to 10 inches.
However, snowfall amounts will vary considerably depending on elevation and distance from Lake Superior.
Warmer temperatures near the lakeshore should limit accumulation to less than an inch in some locations, including the city of Marquette.
Conditions could become significantly worse just a short distance inland.
Forecasters specifically highlight U.S. 41 between Marquette and Negaunee, where snow covered roads and reduced visibility could complicate travel.
Snow showers are expected to intensify Thursday afternoon and evening before continuing into Friday.
Winds could gust to 25 mph inland and reach 35 mph near Lake Superior.
Traverse City Region Faces 1 4 Inches of Snow The developing lake effect pattern also threatens parts of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula.
The National Weather Service in Gaylord issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Leelanau, Benzie and Grand Traverse counties.
That advisory begins at 7 p.m. Thursday, November 12, and continues until 1 p.m. Friday, November 13.
Forecasters expect 1 to 4 inches of snow, especially away from the immediate lakeshores.
Locally higher totals remain possible where persistent snow bands develop.
However, eastern Grand Traverse County and southern Benzie County are expected to receive less than an inch.
Wind gusts could reach 20 mph.
Friday Morning Travel Could Become Hazardous The greatest concern involves changing road conditions during Thursday evening and Friday morning.
Lake effect snow can create dramatic differences within just a few miles.
One stretch of highway may experience locally heavy snow while another remains relatively clear.
Drivers traveling through Marquette, Negaunee, Traverse City and surrounding communities should prepare for rapidly changing visibility.
Bridges, overpasses and untreated roads may become slippery where accumulating snow develops.
Motorists should reduce speed, increase following distances and allow additional travel time.