Marquette, Michigan — Lake-effect snow showers will persist across the Upper Peninsula through New Year’s Eve tonight, bringing hazardous travel and dangerously cold wind chills as the region heads into New Year’s Day.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, northwest wind snow belts will continue to see accumulating snow through tonight. The highest totals of 4 to 7 inches are possible in the eastern Upper Peninsula, including areas near Munising, Grand Marais, and Newberry. Elsewhere, lighter but persistent snow showers are expected.
Gusty winds, especially near the shores of Lake Superior, may lead to blowing and drifting snow, causing localized whiteouts and rapidly changing road conditions. Wind chills are expected to fall well below zero tonight, making outdoor exposure dangerous during New Year’s Eve celebrations and early New Year’s Day.
Roadways likely to be impacted include US-41, M-28, M-94, H-58, and H-13, particularly in open areas prone to drifting snow. Travel may be especially hazardous on stretches between Marquette, Munising, and Grand Marais, where visibility can drop quickly in heavier snow bands.
Temperatures will turn sharply colder tonight, with below-zero wind chills continuing into Thursday (New Year’s Day). While snowfall intensity may ease Thursday, bitter cold will persist, increasing risks for stranded motorists or prolonged outdoor activity.
The National Weather Service advises drivers to avoid unnecessary travel in lake-effect snow bands, carry winter survival kits, and bundle up with layered clothing. Frostbite and hypothermia are possible with prolonged exposure in these conditions.
