GAYLORD, MI — A potent lake effect snow event continues across northwest Lower Michigan today and tonight, with moderate to heavy accumulations and gusty winds producing whiteout conditions at times, according to the National Weather Service in Gaylord.
The heaviest snow bands are expected through this evening, affecting areas including Gaylord, Petoskey, Grayling, and Traverse City, where 3–6 inches may accumulate by Friday morning. Localized totals up to 8 inches are possible in persistent snowbelts, particularly inland from Lake Michigan.
“Travel will be dangerous under heavier snow bands,” forecasters warned. “Visibility can drop to near zero in just seconds on highways like I-75 and US-131.”
Winds will remain gusty, leading to drifting snow and slippery untreated roads, especially overnight. The worst conditions are expected between 11 PM and 3 AM Friday before snow gradually tapers into the morning.
Following this lake effect event, another storm system is expected Saturday night through Sunday, bringing a new round of accumulating snow across much of northern Michigan. While details remain uncertain, there is a medium to high probability (60–90%) of at least 2 inches of snow, with the heaviest totals possible across the tip of the mitt and eastern Upper Peninsula.
Timeline of Events:
- Thanksgiving Day–Thursday Night: Heavy lake effect snow continues; whiteouts possible.
- Friday Morning: Snow gradually diminishes, still breezy and cold.
- Saturday Evening–Sunday: System snow develops; additional accumulation likely.
- Monday: Scattered snow showers linger as temperatures remain below freezing.
Travel Impacts:
- Major Highways: Hazardous conditions along I-75, US-131, and M-32.
- Visibility: Rapidly changing with near-whiteouts under intense snow bands.
- Drifting: Ongoing through Friday due to gusty northwest winds.
Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy bands, slow down, and allow extra time to reach destinations safely.
