Michigan – Winter Weather Advisories have been issued across northern Michigan, with accumulating snow and gusty winds expected to create hazardous travel conditions from Friday afternoon through Saturday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, 2 to 4 inches of snow are expected in Emmet County from 4 p.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Saturday, with wind gusts up to 35 mph producing blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility. The timing may impact the Friday evening commute.
Additional advisories take effect Friday evening through Saturday evening for several surrounding counties. Antrim, Charlevoix, Crawford, Kalkaska, and Otsego counties are expected to see 3 to 6 inches of lake effect snow, mainly along and west of I-75, with locally higher amounts possible. Gusty winds up to 35 mph could lead to near-whiteout conditions in heavier snow bands.
In the eastern Upper Peninsula, Central and Western Chippewa counties are under an advisory from 7 p.m. Friday to 7 p.m. Saturday, where 3 to 7 inches of lake effect snow are expected, especially north of M-28. Winds gusting to 30 mph may further reduce visibility and create drifting snow.
Forecasters emphasize that lake effect snow falls in narrow, shifting bands, meaning conditions can change rapidly over short distances. Roads may quickly become snow-covered, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and rural highways.
Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for sudden drops in visibility. Pedestrians should also use caution on icy sidewalks and steps.
Snow is expected to taper at different times by Saturday evening, but lingering slick spots may persist where heavier bands develop.
