Marquette, Michigan – Lake-effect snow and strong winds will continue across eastern Upper Michigan through tonight, with hazardous travel conditions possible due to blowing snow and rapidly changing visibility.
According to the National Weather Service Marquette, several additional inches of lake-effect snow are expected in Alger, Luce, and Schoolcraft counties, with storm totals ranging from 2 to 6 inches. Snow showers will be most persistent near Lake Superior, where strong winds will contribute to blowing snow and occasional near-whiteout conditions.
Forecasters warn that visibility may drop to near zero at times, particularly east of Harvey in Marquette County, where lake-effect bands have already produced rapidly changing conditions. Travel impacts are expected along major routes including U.S. Highway 41, M-28, M-35, and U.S. Highway 2, especially in open areas exposed to northwest winds.
The National Weather Service notes that visibility can change dramatically over short distances during lake-effect events, catching drivers off guard. Even brief snow squalls may quickly coat roadways and reduce traction, particularly on untreated roads, bridges, and curves.
Winds gusting off Lake Superior will continue to cause blowing and drifting snow through the evening hours. Conditions are expected to gradually improve later tonight, especially after 7 p.m. in parts of Marquette County as snow bands shift and weaken.
Residents, commuters, and overnight travelers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and be prepared for sudden whiteouts. Carrying winter safety supplies is recommended for anyone traveling long distances across the eastern U.P.
Students, night-shift workers, and those traveling for weekend activities should monitor conditions closely, as lake-effect snow can remain highly localized but impactful.
The National Weather Service advises staying up to date with the latest statements and short-term forecasts at weather.gov/mqt, particularly for communities near Lake Superior where conditions may deteriorate quickly.
