Gaylord, Michigan — Falling temperatures, gusty winds up to 45 mph, and accumulating lake-enhanced snow are expected to create hazardous travel conditions across parts of Northern Michigan on Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, snow showers will continue through approximately 4 p.m. Friday, with localized snowfall totals exceeding 4 inches in some areas. Rapidly dropping temperatures are expected to lead to a flash freeze, increasing the risk of icy roads, especially on untreated surfaces.
Forecasters say strong west to northwest winds will contribute to blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility at times and creating near-whiteout conditions in open areas. Wind gusts reaching up to 45 mph may also result in sporadic power outages, particularly where snow accumulates on tree limbs and power lines.
The most significant impacts are expected during the daytime hours Friday as temperatures fall quickly behind a passing system. Roads that are wet from earlier precipitation could freeze rapidly, catching drivers off guard. The National Weather Service urges motorists to slow down, increase following distances, and be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions.
Areas west and northwest of Gaylord, including portions of Antrim, Charlevoix, and Leelanau counties, may see the highest snowfall totals due to lake-enhanced bands. However, hazardous travel is possible throughout much of the region.
Officials recommend checking road conditions before traveling and preparing for potential delays during the Friday commute. Young workers, students, and commuters traveling during midday and afternoon hours may experience the most significant impacts as snowfall and falling temperatures overlap.
