Michigan’s winter machine is fully engaged this morning, with lake-effect snow bands pushing inland and visibility dropping fast in spots north of M-72. Snow drifts across tree-lined roads, and gusty winds whip flakes sideways near Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay.
According to the National Weather Service, Gaylord and much of northern Lower Michigan will see lake-effect snow showers through today, with the heaviest accumulations focused near and south of Grand Traverse Bay. Snowfall varies sharply by location, but several inches are possible, especially in persistent bands. Drivers should expect reduced visibility and localized hazardous travel, even when totals look modest.
Conditions briefly improve late today as lake-effect activity slowly tapers. That break will be short-lived.
A fast-moving clipper system arrives late tonight into Monday, spreading more widespread snow across northern Lower Michigan and eastern Upper Michigan. While the clipper is not expected to be extreme, its timing raises concerns for early Monday travel, particularly during the morning commute. Fresh snow combined with lingering winds could cause blowing and drifting snow, especially on exposed stretches of roadway.
Temperatures remain firmly wintry. Highs today range from 12 to 24 degrees, coldest inland and slightly milder near the lakes. Wind chills improve compared to recent days but still feel sharp during heavier snow bursts.
Travelers should plan ahead. Allow extra stopping distance, slow down in snow bands, and watch for sudden whiteout conditions. Roads can change quickly from clear to snow-covered within a mile.
Looking ahead, lake-effect snow gradually diminishes after Monday as winds weaken and temperatures moderate closer to seasonal norms. Even so, northern Michigan remains in an active December pattern, and additional snow chances remain on the radar as the week before Christmas unfolds.
