Michigan Thumb – Dangerous early-morning travel conditions are impacting Michigan’s Thumb region as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac, a Winter Weather Advisory is active for Huron County until 7 a.m. EST. The alert highlights lake effect snow and strong winds, with accumulations of 4 to 7 inches possible along the Lake Huron shoreline from Port Hope to Harbor Beach, and 1 to 3 inches expected farther inland.
Wind gusts reaching up to 40 miles per hour are causing considerable blowing snow, leading to near-whiteout conditions at times, particularly in open areas and along exposed roadways near the lakeshore. Visibility may drop rapidly, making travel hazardous with little warning.
Significant travel impacts are expected along M-25, M-53, and local county roads, especially near coastal communities and rural stretches where drifting snow can quickly cover lanes. Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility may make driving extremely difficult during the pre-dawn hours.
The advisory includes the city of Bad Axe and surrounding communities across Huron County. Emergency managers warn that even experienced winter drivers may encounter sudden visibility loss as snow bands intensify.
The National Weather Service urges motorists to slow down, avoid sudden maneuvers, and allow extra stopping distance. Drivers encountering whiteout conditions are advised to reduce speed immediately and consider delaying travel until conditions improve.
For early-shift workers, emergency responders, and agricultural operators, the most dangerous conditions are expected before sunrise, with gradual improvement possible later this morning as winds ease and snow intensity diminishes.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and road conditions and to avoid unnecessary travel until the advisory expires. Conditions may remain locally slick even after snowfall tapers off due to lingering drifting snow.
