A powerful winter storm is expected to produce heavy snow and whiteout conditions across the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes region, with some areas likely to receive more than a foot of snow by Monday.
According to the NOAA Weather Prediction Center, the storm will rapidly intensify over the Midwest on Sunday before tracking through the Great Lakes on Monday, spreading hazardous winter weather from the Upper Midwest eastward. Periods of heavy snowfall are anticipated late Sunday and continuing into Monday, particularly across the Upper Great Lakes.
Forecasters highlight Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as a primary concern, where lake-enhanced snowfall could exceed 12 inches, especially in areas favored by northwest winds off Lake Superior. Snowfall rates may become intense at times, and blowing snow driven by gusty winds could significantly reduce visibility, creating whiteout conditions.
The Weather Prediction Center warns that travel across portions of the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes could become treacherous or impossible, particularly during the overnight hours and into the Monday morning commute. Snow-covered roads, drifting snow, and rapidly changing visibility are expected during the height of the storm.
Behind the system’s cold front on Monday, locally heavy lake-effect snow may persist across parts of the Great Lakes region, prolonging hazardous travel conditions even after the main storm exits.
Residents and travelers are urged to monitor forecasts closely, prepare for possible road closures, and consider adjusting travel plans ahead of the storm’s peak impacts. Emergency officials stress that conditions may deteriorate quickly once heavy snow begins.
