Lansing, Michigan – A classic Great Lakes winter pattern is expected to intensify across Michigan as the New Year approaches, with strong signals for accumulating snow, lake-effect impacts, and hazardous travel from Dec 27 through Jan 9.
Large-scale atmospheric patterns favor repeated storm systems moving through the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes during this period. According to the National Weather Service, colder air is expected to remain entrenched across the region, allowing most systems to produce snow rather than rain. Northern Lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula currently show the strongest signal for frequent snowfall, while central and southern areas, including Lansing and Detroit, are also likely to see multiple snow events.
Lake-effect snow will be a key factor, especially downwind of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. Areas along and west of US-131, as well as parts of the U.P., may experience locally heavy snow and sharply reduced visibility at times. Snow is expected to fall in several rounds, increasing the likelihood of recurring travel disruptions rather than a single major storm.
Major corridors including I-94, I-96, I-75, US-23, and I-69 could see snow-covered roads and delays, particularly overnight and during early morning hours. Gusty winds may accompany stronger systems, leading to blowing snow and isolated power outages where snow accumulates on trees and power lines.
The Michigan Department of Transportation urges drivers to monitor road conditions closely during the holiday travel period and to carry winter emergency supplies. While brief quieter intervals are expected, the overall pattern supports a snowy and impactful start to 2026 across Lansing and much of Michigan.
