Gaylord, MI – A high-impact lake-effect snowstorm is battering northern Michigan on Thanksgiving morning, bringing whiteout conditions, deep snow totals, and dangerous wind gusts that continue to make travel treacherous. The most intense bands are producing rapid drops in visibility and fresh accumulations even on previously cleared roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect through Friday for Antrim, Kalkaska, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Otsego, Crawford, Missaukee, Roscommon, Charlevoix, Western and Central Chippewa, and Mackinac Counties. Totals range from 5 to 12 inches in most areas, with 18 to 24 inches possible in southern Antrim and Kalkaska. According to forecasters, winds up to 45 mph will continue to blow and drift snow across US-131, M-32, and I-75 near Waters, with snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. According to local road commissions, whiteouts may persist well into midday on exposed corridors.
The storm’s most intense window stretches from early morning through late afternoon Weather Today – Thanksgiving Day 2025. Heavy bursts will shift quickly, leaving drivers moving from clear pavement into near-zero visibility within seconds. Areas from Gaylord to Mancelona, Kalkaska, Frederic, Indian River, St. Ignace, and Mackinaw City face the highest impacts.
Residents should delay travel whenever possible. If driving is unavoidable, keep winter emergency kits—flashlights, food, and water—in vehicles, reduce speed, and avoid sudden braking. Clear sensors and lights, and be prepared for plows to be briefly overwhelmed in the heaviest bands. Drifting will remain severe across open farmland and higher terrain.
Conditions begin improving late Friday as winds ease and bands break apart.
