Marquette, MI – A powerful winter storm continues to impact Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for multiple counties, with accumulations expected to reach up to 24 inches in some areas before the storm subsides early Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, heavy snow and gusts up to 45 mph are creating dangerous whiteout conditions across Keweenaw, Ontonagon, Houghton, Gogebic, Baraga, Marquette, Alger, Iron, and Dickinson counties. The heaviest snowfall is expected overnight Tuesday into Wednesday morning, with snowfall rates exceeding one inch per hour at times.
In Marquette and Baraga counties, snowfall totals could reach 1 to 2 feet, with coastal areas seeing a mix of rain before transitioning to snow early Wednesday. Further west, Houghton and Ontonagon counties may see 11 to 19 inches, while Iron and Dickinson counties are forecasted for 5 to 10 inches by Wednesday evening. Alger County is also expecting 7 to 14 inches, with strong winds worsening visibility.
Authorities warn that road conditions will be treacherous, especially during the Wednesday morning and evening commutes. Blowing and drifting snow may lead to near-impossible travel, and the combination of wet, heavy snow and strong winds could down trees and power lines, resulting in sporadic power outages.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for potential disruptions. Those who must travel should carry an emergency kit with food, water, and a flashlight in case of emergencies. Snowfall is expected to taper off late Wednesday night into early Thursday, though road conditions may remain hazardous.
Stay updated with the latest weather alerts and travel advisories from local authorities.
