Gaylord, MI – Northern Michigan is preparing for its first accumulating snow of the season this weekend as cold air sweeps across the Great Lakes, triggering lake effect snow showers beginning Saturday evening.
According to the US National Weather Service Gaylord, the best chances for accumulation will be Saturday night through Sunday, particularly in areas along the Lake Michigan and Lake Huron shorelines, where north winds will enhance snowfall. Some areas could see 2 inches or more of accumulation by early Monday.
Forecasters caution that warmer lakeshore areas may see periods of rain mixing in, especially during the daytime hours, which could limit totals. Still, inland regions north of Gaylord and west toward Petoskey are likely to experience steady snow and reduced visibility on roadways.
Drivers are urged to use caution this weekend as slippery roads and quick visibility drops are possible in heavier snow bands. The National Weather Service adds that the placement of the heaviest snowfall could shift as lake wind patterns evolve through Sunday.
The early-season snow event marks the beginning of a much colder pattern for northern Michigan heading into next week.
