Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan – Drivers across Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula could face near-total whiteouts within minutes as a powerful blizzard buries the region under up to 24 inches of snow and wind gusts reaching 45 mph through Tuesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect until 8 a.m. Tuesday for Chippewa and Mackinac counties, including Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace, De Tour Village, and surrounding communities. Visibility may drop below one-quarter mile as strong winds whip falling snow into dangerous drifts.
Travel across the eastern U.P. may become nearly impossible, particularly along major routes including I-75 near St. Ignace and M-28 across Chippewa County. Blowing snow is expected to pile into roadways and rural stretches, increasing the risk of stranded vehicles during both the Monday morning and evening commutes.
Wind gusts approaching 45 mph could also snap tree limbs and cause scattered power interruptions across exposed shoreline communities along Lake Superior and northern Lake Huron.
Emergency managers urge residents to avoid non-essential travel. Anyone who must drive should carry blankets, food, water, and a charged phone in case conditions deteriorate quickly.
Heavy snow and blizzard conditions are expected to continue through Monday night, with warnings remaining in effect until 8 a.m. Tuesday and additional advisories possible if drifting snow persists.
