Marquette, MI – Drivers across Marquette and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are facing dangerous winter travel conditions Monday, with blowing snow, strong winds, and extreme cold expected to persist through Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, near-blizzard conditions are developing in parts of the region as moderate to occasionally heavy lake-effect snow, combined with northwest winds gusting 35 to 45 mph, significantly reduces visibility. Officials warn that roads can quickly become snow-covered with whiteout conditions, especially in open and lakeshore areas.
Snow and blowing snow are impacting travel throughout the day Monday, with the worst conditions expected through mid-morning in north-central and western Upper Michigan, and continuing into the afternoon and evening across eastern sections. Major routes including US-41, M-28, and county highways may become very difficult to travel, particularly during commute hours.
In addition to snow, dangerously cold wind chills are a major concern. Forecasters say wind chills will range between 15 and 25 below zero today, then drop further tonight, reaching 20 to 35 below zero across much of the Upper Peninsula. These conditions significantly increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, especially for stranded motorists.
Cold Weather Advisories are now region-wide, remaining in effect through Tuesday morning. Even brief exposure to the wind overnight and early Tuesday could become dangerous.
Drivers are strongly urged to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel
- Slow down immediately in blowing snow
- Carry winter emergency supplies, including blankets, food, water, and a flashlight
- Prepare for possible power outages due to strong winds
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Tuesday, but officials stress that Monday and early Tuesday pose the highest roadway risk across Upper Michigan.
Residents should continue monitoring updates and follow all advisories as this high-impact winter system moves through the region.
