Marquette, MI – A powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions to Upper Michigan beginning Sunday night and continuing through Monday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, heavy snow and strong winds will spread across the region, creating hazardous to potentially dangerous driving conditions. Near-zero visibility and blizzard-like conditions will be possible at times, especially in areas exposed to strong winds.
Forecast data indicates a greater than 60% chance of at least 12 inches of snow in counties along Lake Superior. Snowfall totals and confidence have increased, particularly for northern and lakeshore areas where wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph are expected. These winds may lead to significant blowing and drifting snow, making travel extremely difficult.
Ahead of the main system, freezing drizzle Sunday morning could leave a light glaze of ice on untreated roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. As snowfall intensifies Sunday night, conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly.
The National Weather Service warns that power outages are likely, especially where heavy snow and strong winds combine to stress trees and power lines. Residents with travel plans Sunday night or Monday are urged to consider postponing or adjusting those plans due to the severity of expected conditions.
Road crews may struggle to keep up with snowfall rates during the peak of the storm, and emergency response times could be impacted. Motorists who must travel should carry winter survival supplies and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve late Monday night into Tuesday, though lingering snow and blowing snow may continue in some areas.
Additional warnings and advisories remain in effect, and further updates will be issued as the storm unfolds.
