Detroit, Michigan – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for parts of Michigan’s Thumb region, where heavy lake-effect snow could develop from Wednesday afternoon into Thursday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac, the watch includes Huron and Sanilac counties, specifically areas east of M-53 and north of M-46, including the cities of Bad Axe and Sandusky. The watch is in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning.
Forecasters say snow accumulations of up to 7 inches are possible if lake-effect snow bands become established over the region. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph, which may lead to blowing snow and reduced visibility, especially in open and rural areas.
While confidence is not yet high enough for a warning, the National Weather Service cautions that conditions could deteriorate quickly if heavier snow bands develop. Lake-effect snow is known for its sharp contrasts, with heavy snowfall impacting some locations while nearby areas receive much less.
The most likely impacts would occur during the Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes, when roads could become slick and hazardous. Bridges, overpasses, and less-traveled roads may be especially vulnerable to icing and snow accumulation.
Residents are urged to monitor forecast updates closely, as the watch could be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning or downgraded to an advisory depending on how the system evolves. Small changes in wind direction or lake-effect band placement could significantly affect snowfall totals.
Motorists traveling through the Thumb region should be prepared for rapidly changing road and visibility conditions and consider adjusting travel plans if heavier snow materializes.
Additional updates are expected as confidence increases.
