Gaylord, MI – Hazardous winter weather is impacting Northern Michigan Friday as snow, strong winds, and blowing snow create dangerous travel conditions across much of the region. A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through this afternoon, with additional impacts expected into the evening due to rapidly falling temperatures.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, 2 to 4 inches of snow are expected across much of Northern Lower Michigan, with locally higher totals west of I-75. Wind gusts up to 45 mph are producing areas of blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility, particularly in open and lakeshore areas.
Counties under the advisory include Emmet, Cheboygan, Leelanau, Antrim, Otsego, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Crawford, Manistee, Wexford, and Charlevoix. The advisory remains in effect until 4 p.m. EST for these areas and until 1 p.m. EST for Western Chippewa County, where 1 to 3 inches of snow and gusts up to 40 mph are expected.
Officials warn that the Friday morning commute will be impacted by slick and snow-covered roads. In addition, temperatures are expected to fall rapidly later today, leading to a flash freeze that could cause untreated roads to quickly become icy.
Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches and cause isolated power outages. Visibility can change rapidly due to lake-effect snow bands, with conditions varying significantly over short distances.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and remain alert for sudden changes in road and visibility conditions. Extra caution is advised on bridges, overpasses, and rural highways.
