Gaylord, MI – The National Weather Service in Gaylord is warning travelers of a dangerous Thanksgiving lake effect snow event that will bring heavy snow and strong winds to northern Michigan from Wednesday evening through Friday morning.
Rain will transition to snow this afternoon and evening as colder air moves in behind a passing front. Snowfall amounts of 6 to 12 inches are expected in typical northwest snowbelt regions, with localized totals up to 18 inches possible across Kalkaska and Antrim Counties.
Winds gusting 30 to 50+ mph will lead to blowing and drifting snow and whiteout conditions at times, making travel extremely hazardous — particularly in the Grand Traverse Bay region and inland toward Gaylord and Mancelona.
Impacts:
- Dangerous travel conditions with rapidly dropping visibility and snow-covered roads.
- Strong winds may cause drifting snow and isolated power outages.
- Hazardous holiday travel is expected Thursday and Friday.
Uncertainty remains on how far inland snow bands will reach, but forecasters emphasize that conditions could worsen quickly under persistent snow bands.
Travelers are urged to:
- Monitor forecasts closely and delay travel if possible.
- Carry emergency supplies if driving.
- Be prepared for rapidly deteriorating conditions and reduced visibility.
