Marquette, Michigan – Drivers across the central and eastern Upper Peninsula could face sharply reduced visibility and difficult road conditions through this evening as lake effect snow and strong winds continue to impact the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through Wednesday evening for Alger, Baraga, Luce, Marquette, and northern Schoolcraft counties. Additional snowfall of up to two inches is expected, but blowing snow driven by wind gusts as high as 35 mph is creating the greatest concern, especially near Lake Superior.
In Marquette, Gwinn, Munising, Grand Marais, L’Anse, Newberry, and Seney, snow-covered roads combined with gusty winds may cause sudden whiteout conditions at times. Visibility can drop quickly on open stretches of roadway, particularly along east-west routes and near the lakeshore. The Wednesday evening commute is expected to be the most impacted period.
Plow crews may struggle to keep roads clear as blowing snow redeposits quickly after treatment. Drivers of high-profile vehicles could also encounter difficult handling in strong crosswinds.
Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve later this evening. The advisory is expected to expire tonight, but lingering slick spots may remain after winds diminish. Travelers should continue monitoring for any additional statements or extensions if lake effect bands persist.
