Michigan greets the shoreline with roaring wind and choppy lake waves, as gusts whip snow and spray across exposed roads. Strong winds dominate the start of the day in the central Upper Peninsula, immediately creating travel and safety concerns.
This Winter Weather Alert highlights a high-impact setup for Marquette and surrounding areas. Wind gusts exceed 45 mph at times today, especially near Lake Superior and exposed ridgelines. Blowing snow may reduce visibility suddenly, and loose objects can be displaced. Drivers on US-41, M-28, and lakeshore routes should expect crosswinds and sudden handling issues.
Minor lakeshore flooding and beach erosion remain possible today, particularly along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Alger and Schoolcraft counties. Water levels fluctuate as strong winds push waves inland. Avoid shoreline areas during peak gusts.
Conditions calm slightly Wednesday, with colder but quieter weather settling in. That lull will be short-lived. Meteorologists are tracking a high-impact winter system arriving Thursday. Rain and mixed precipitation begin during the day as temperatures hover near freezing. By Thursday night, colder air surges in.
That timing raises concern for a flash freeze. Wet roads may freeze quickly as temperatures drop into the teens. Snow intensifies Thursday night, with blowing snow reducing visibility significantly. Several inches of snow are possible, especially near Lake Superior and higher terrain.
Friday remains hazardous, with continued snow showers and blowing snow. Road crews may struggle to keep surfaces clear if ice forms beneath fresh snow. Travel should be delayed if possible, particularly late Thursday night into early Friday.
The weekend stays wintry but slightly calmer. Snow showers linger Saturday, with colder air holding firm. Sunday trends quieter but cold, offering limited recovery before more snow chances next week.
This is a classic Upper Peninsula December Winter transition, where wind, snow, and ice combine rapidly. Prepare now, secure loose items, and plan travel carefully.
5-Day Outlook for Marquette, MI
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 32
- Thursday: Rain/snow, windy, high 37
- Friday: Snow showers, blowing snow, high 19
- Saturday: Snow showers, high 28
- Sunday: Partly sunny, colder, high 22
