Sault Ste. Marie, MI – A significant winter storm is set to move into Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula this afternoon, bringing heavy snow, strong gusts, and sharply reduced visibility that may create dangerous travel through Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 1 p.m. Wednesday to 1 p.m. Thursday for Western and Central Chippewa County. Snow is expected to intensify quickly this afternoon, continuing overnight and into early Thursday.
Forecasters say total snowfall will reach 6 to 12 inches, with locally higher amounts possible in areas favored by lake enhancement. Winds gusting between 25 and 30 mph will produce blowing snow, causing visibility to drop below a quarter mile at times.
Communities from Sault Ste. Marie to Rudyard, Kinross, Paradise, Eckerman, and surrounding areas may experience whiteout conditions late tonight into early Thursday, making travel extremely difficult. The storm is expected to heavily impact the Thursday morning commute, with snow-covered and drifting roads.
NWS officials urge drivers to avoid unnecessary travel and to prepare for sudden changes in visibility. Anyone who must be on the road should allow extra time, reduce speed, and maintain a safe following distance. Winter emergency kits—including food, water, blankets, and a flashlight—are strongly recommended.
Snow is expected to taper Thursday afternoon as winds slowly decrease.
