Gaylord, MI — Accumulating snow is expected to return to the Northwoods this afternoon and continue into Saturday as a cold front moves across northern Michigan, ushering in a much colder air mass for the weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Gaylord.
Forecasters say several inches of snow are likely across portions of northwest Lower Michigan and the eastern Upper Peninsula by early Saturday morning. Additional lake-effect snow will follow through the day Saturday, bringing localized higher totals, particularly in areas favored by northwest flow.
Wind chills are expected to fall below zero late tonight through Saturday, creating hazardous conditions for anyone outdoors. Wind gusts between 25 and 35 mph—and potentially higher in exposed locations—may produce patchy blowing and drifting snow, especially across open areas near Lake Michigan and the higher terrain.
The timing of the heaviest snow stretches from late Friday evening through early Saturday, with rapid drops in visibility likely within lake-effect bands. The NWS warns that quickly falling temperatures tonight could lead to flash-freeze conditions, turning wet roads icy by Saturday morning.
Officials urge drivers to use caution, especially during the overnight and early morning hours when travel impacts will be greatest. Localized hazardous travel, reduced visibility, and drifting snow may continue into Saturday afternoon.
Temperatures will remain well below average through the weekend, with continued lake-effect activity possible into early next week.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and check road conditions before traveling.
