Michigan – Snow streaks sideways across parking lots and farm fields this morning as lake-effect bands intensify along Lake Michigan. Pavement looks wet at first glance, then turns slick without warning. This storm is already disrupting Monday travel across Western Michigan.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through 7 p.m. Monday for much of west, southwest, and central Michigan. Additional snowfall of 2 to 7 inches is expected, driven by wind gusts up to 60 mph that will sharply reduce visibility.
Communities from Ludington and Muskegon south through Grand Haven, Holland, South Haven, and Kalamazoo sit in the core impact zone. Snowfall rates may spike quickly inside narrow lake-effect bands, producing whiteout conditions even where totals appear modest. Roads, bridges, and overpasses will ice over rapidly as temperatures fall.
Travel impacts will worsen through the day. I-96, US-31, and I-196 could see sudden shutdowns as visibility drops below a quarter mile. To be fair, conditions may look manageable one moment and turn hazardous the next. Plan extra time, slow down, or delay travel if possible.
Power interruptions are possible where gusts strain tree limbs already coated with snow. Emergency officials urge drivers to carry winter kits and avoid unnecessary trips.
Looking ahead, colder air tightens its grip through midweek. Lingering lake-effect snow showers remain possible Tuesday, followed by quieter but colder conditions into New Year’s Eve Wednesday. Another weak system could brush the region near New Year’s Day 2026, keeping winter travel on edge.
