Houghton, MI – A Blizzard Warning remains in effect for Keweenaw, Ontonagon, Northern Houghton, Baraga, and Gogebic Counties through 7 a.m. Thursday, as one of the strongest winter storms of the season continues to pound the western Upper Peninsula.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, total snow accumulations are expected to reach between 12 and 29 inches, with the heaviest snow falling along the Spine of the Keweenaw Peninsula, in the Porcupine Mountains, and near Bergland Dam. Winds could gust as high as 55 mph, creating widespread whiteout conditions and making travel extremely dangerous or impossible.
The storm has already caused significant impacts to Wednesday morning and evening commutes, and forecasters warn hazardous conditions will persist into Thanksgiving morning. Visibility may drop to near zero at times, and strong winds could damage trees and power lines, leading to possible outages and blocked roads.
Officials urge residents to avoid all nonessential travel and to carry a winter emergency kit if driving is unavoidable. Those stranded are advised to remain in their vehicles until help arrives.
Conditions are expected to slowly improve Thursday morning as snowfall intensity decreases and winds begin to weaken.
