Marquette, MI – Snowy and hazardous travel conditions are expected to develop across Marquette and much of the western and central Upper Peninsula beginning Thursday afternoon, as a Winter Weather Advisory goes into effect.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, the advisory will be in effect from 1 p.m. EST Thursday until 7 a.m. EST Friday for Keweenaw, Ontonagon, northern and southern Houghton, Baraga, Marquette, and Gogebic counties. Snow accumulations of 2 to 6 inches are expected, with the highest totals possible in areas closer to Lake Superior.
Winds gusting up to 45 miles per hour near the Lake Superior shoreline could lead to areas of blowing snow, significantly reducing visibility at times. Forecasters warn that roads, especially bridges and overpasses, are likely to become slick and hazardous as snow accumulates Thursday afternoon and evening.
The hazardous conditions are expected to impact the Thursday evening commute and could linger into the Friday morning commute, particularly in inland and higher-elevation areas. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches, potentially causing isolated power disruptions.
A separate Winter Weather Advisory will begin later Thursday evening for Alger and northern Schoolcraft counties, including Munising, Seney, and Grand Marais. In those areas, up to 4 inches of snow is expected between Thursday night and Friday afternoon, with continued gusty winds near the lakeshore.
Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time. Pedestrians should also use caution, as sidewalks, stairs, and driveways may become icy and slippery.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Friday as snowfall tapers off, though lingering slick spots may remain during the morning hours. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and local alerts as the system moves through Upper Michigan.
