GAYLORD, Mich. – Lake-effect snow showers are streaking across northern Michigan this morning, whitening roads from Traverse City to Gaylord as temperatures hover near freezing. Wind off Lake Michigan is fueling bursts of heavier snow, with visibility dropping to a quarter mile at times on U.S. 131 and M-32. Commuters should allow extra time for slick, snow-covered roads and scattered refreezing as the early winter pattern strengthens.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, accumulating snow will persist through tonight for northwest and northeast lower Michigan, with new totals of 1–3 inches possible. Additional lake-effect snow is expected Monday and Monday night, especially in traditional snowbelts near Petoskey, Gaylord, and Rogers City. Travel disruptions may increase as winds shift northwest, enhancing localized snow squalls and low visibility.
By Veterans Day, Tuesday, a push of Arctic air will drop temperatures into the 20s and 30s, marking one of the coldest starts to November in years. A rain-snow mix could develop across northern Lower Michigan late Tuesday, while Upper Peninsula communities stay entirely snow-covered. Residents should plan for slower commutes, charge mobile devices in case of power flickers, and keep winter emergency kits in vehicles.
To be fair, midweek brings a brief break: partly sunny skies and calmer winds Wednesday, before another round of scattered snow showers returns Thursday. Long-range guidance hints that colder air may reload later next weekend, a sign that winter is settling in for good.
Five-Day Forecast for Gaylord, MI:
Sun: 31/16 – Snow showers likely; 1–3″ possible west and central counties.
Mon: 32/23 – Scattered snow; patchy blowing snow north of M-32.
Tue (Veterans Day): 37/29 – Rain/snow mix late; roads icy at dusk.
Wed: 40/31 – Mostly cloudy; brief sunshine, calmer winds.
Thu: 41/28 – Chance snow showers; brisk northwest breeze.
