Accumulating lake effect snow combined with strong winds is creating hazardous travel conditions across northern Michigan through New Year’s Eve and into New Year’s Day, according to the National Weather Service in Gaylord.
NWS reports that lake effect snow bands will persist today through Thursday, focusing on the typical snow belts of northern Lower and eastern Upper Michigan. Wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph this afternoon and evening are expected to cause patchy blowing snow and reduced visibility, particularly in open areas.
The 24-hour snowfall forecast from 7 a.m. today to 7 a.m. Thursday shows localized totals exceeding 10 inches, with 8 inches or more possible in favored lake effect corridors near Petoskey, Boyne Falls, Beaver Island, and areas west of Gaylord. Surrounding regions, including Traverse City, Grayling, and Kalkaska, may see 4 to 8 inches, with lighter amounts farther east.
According to the National Weather Service, the heaviest snow showers are expected from this afternoon through late tonight, directly impacting New Year’s Eve travel. Visibility may drop quickly during heavier snow bursts, especially where strong winds cause blowing and drifting.
Road impacts are expected along Interstate 75, U.S. Highway 131, M-32, and M-72, where snow-covered and slick conditions may develop rapidly. Travel along exposed north-south routes could become especially dangerous during peak snow bands.
Forecasters warn that localized hazardous travel conditions may occur even outside the heaviest accumulation zones due to shifting snow bands and wind-driven snow. Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and carry winter emergency supplies.
Snow showers are expected to gradually diminish later on New Year’s Day, though lingering lake effect snow and gusty winds may continue to affect travel into Thursday afternoon.
For holiday travelers, overnight workers, and New Year’s Eve celebrations, the combination of heavy lake effect snow, strong winds, and poor visibility poses a significant safety concern.
