Northern Lower Michigan – A multi-phase winter storm is impacting northern Lower Michigan, beginning with freezing rain Sunday and transitioning to heavy snow and strong winds late Sunday night into Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect until 1 p.m. EST Sunday for much of northern Lower Michigan, including Roscommon, Gladwin, Arenac, Iosco, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Alpena, Crawford, Montmorency, Missaukee, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Wexford, Emmet, Cheboygan, and Presque Isle counties.
During the daytime hours Sunday, freezing rain or freezing drizzle is expected, with ice accumulations generally under one-tenth of an inch. Roads, sidewalks, and untreated surfaces may become slick, especially during the morning and early afternoon.
A more significant round of winter weather arrives late Sunday night into Monday, with Winter Weather Advisories or Winter Storm Warnings taking effect depending on location.
- Winter Weather Advisories from 1 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday cover counties including Roscommon, Gladwin, Alcona, Arenac, Iosco, Ogemaw, and Oscoda, where 2 to 6 inches of snow is expected with wind gusts up to 45 mph, leading to blowing and drifting snow.
- Winter Storm Warnings are in effect from early Monday through Monday night or early Tuesday for Antrim, Charlevoix, Otsego, Missaukee, Alpena, Crawford, Montmorency, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Wexford, Emmet, Cheboygan, and Presque Isle counties. These areas may receive 6 to 12 inches of snow, with localized higher totals possible and significant blowing snow.
The National Weather Service warns that visibilities may drop below one-quarter mile, with whiteout conditions possible, especially overnight Sunday and during the Monday morning and evening commutes. Power outages may occur due to ice and strong winds impacting trees and power lines.
Residents are urged to delay travel if possible, prepare for rapidly changing road conditions, and have emergency supplies available if travel is unavoidable. Travelers should continue monitoring forecast updates as conditions evolve.
Road conditions across Michigan can be checked by calling 511.
