MARQUETTE, Mich. – The Upper Peninsula is bracing for a blustery stretch of wet, cold weather this week as another push of late-October air sweeps in from the northwest. Dark skies and steady showers will blanket much of Marquette County through Thursday, and forecasters say residents should be alert for a few early snowflakes mixing in before the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, rain will continue much of Wednesday and Thursday, driven by northwest winds gusting up to 30 mph along the Lake Superior shoreline. Temperatures will hover in the mid-40s through Thursday, but the air behind this system will cool quickly — dropping near the mid-30s Thursday night. That transition could trigger light, wet snow showers over higher elevations inland from U.S. 41, especially north of Ishpeming and Negaunee.
Travelers along M-28 and County Road 480 should plan for slick, leaf-covered pavement and brief visibility drops in heavier showers. Those living near the lakefront may also hear the season’s first gust-driven waves pounding the shore, a reminder that November gales aren’t far behind.
By Friday, clouds will begin to thin and winds will relax as high pressure builds over the region. The weekend looks noticeably drier and calmer, with highs near 54°F Saturday and a touch of sun for late-season yardwork or fall color drives.
To be fair, the snow threat remains minor for now — but this marks the start of winter’s slow approach across the U.P. With chilly air pooling north of the Great Lakes, residents are watching closely for the season’s first measurable flakes.
Five-Day Forecast for Marquette, MI:
Wed: 46/40 – Breezy with steady showers; gusts to 30 mph.
Thu: 45/38 – Rain likely; colder air late.
Fri: 48/35 – Clouds breaking; light lake-effect possible early.
Sat: 54/42 – Partly sunny; cool and calm.
Sun: 58/44 – Mostly sunny; mild for late October.
