Marquette, Michigan – Hazardous winter weather conditions are expected to continue across parts of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula through Tuesday morning, as persistent lake effect snow showers create difficult travel and sharply reduced visibility.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, northwest to west-northwest winds are sustaining lake effect snow bands across the region, with additional snowfall of 2 to 7 inches most likely through 7 a.m. EST Tuesday. The highest snowfall totals are expected east of Munising and north of M-28, where lake-enhanced snow has been most persistent.
Forecasters warn that snowflakes will be fine and dry, making them highly susceptible to blowing and drifting. Visibility could drop to below one-half mile at times, especially in areas exposed to northwest winds. Recently fallen fluffy snow will also contribute to blowable snowpack, worsening travel conditions even where snowfall rates ease.
As a result, Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect across portions of the central and eastern Upper Peninsula. Travel impacts are expected to continue through the overnight hours and into the Tuesday morning commute.
Drivers should use extreme caution on U.S. Highway 41, M-28, M-94, and local county roads, where snow-covered lanes, drifting, and sudden whiteout conditions are possible. Open stretches of roadway and higher terrain are particularly vulnerable to blowing snow.
The National Weather Service urges motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. If travel is necessary, drivers should carry winter emergency supplies and allow extra time to reach destinations.
Residents and commuters in the Marquette area should monitor updated forecasts and road conditions closely, as lake effect snow bands can shift quickly and significantly alter local impacts.
