Manistee, MI – Drivers in Manistee and surrounding communities are being warned of increasingly dangerous road conditions as lake effect snow intensifies across northern Lower Michigan.
According to the National Weather Service Gaylord, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 p.m. Saturday to 7 a.m. Sunday, followed by a Winter Storm Watch from Sunday afternoon through Monday evening. Snowfall totals of up to 7 inches are possible by the time the system exits the region.
The greatest impacts are expected along US-31 and M-55 in Manistee County, where strong northwest winds could cause heavy blowing and drifting snow. Wind gusts may reach 40 mph Monday, sharply reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions.
Forecasters warn that whiteout conditions may develop Monday, especially during heavier snow bands. Travel could become very difficult or unsafe, particularly during the Monday morning and evening commutes.
Lake effect snow can be highly localized, meaning conditions may change dramatically over short distances. Drivers could encounter clear roads one moment and near-zero visibility just a few miles away.
Residents are urged to monitor forecast updates, delay travel if possible, and use caution if driving is unavoidable.
