Gaylord, Michigan – Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect across much of northern Lower Michigan as ongoing snowfall and gusty winds continue to create hazardous travel conditions Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, advisories cover a broad area including Emmet, Otsego, Montmorency, Alpena, Crawford, Roscommon, Ogemaw, Iosco, Alcona, Oscoda, Charlevoix, Leelanau, Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Manistee, Wexford, Missaukee, Mackinac, and Chippewa counties, as well as Beaver Island, Mackinac Island, and Bois Blanc Island.
Most locations can expect additional snowfall of 1 to 4 inches, with locally higher amounts possible in snow belt areas, particularly near Lake Michigan and northern Lake Huron. Wind gusts are forecast to reach 30 to 35 mph at times, which may cause blowing snow and reduced visibility, especially on open roadways.
Advisories are scheduled to expire at different times depending on location, with many areas remaining under advisory until 10 a.m. EST Sunday, while parts of northwestern Lower Michigan, including Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Benzie counties, remain under advisory until 1 p.m. EST Sunday.
The National Weather Service cautions that travel could be difficult, with snow-covered and slippery roads expected across the region. During lake effect snow events, conditions may change rapidly, with localized heavier snow bands producing sudden drops in visibility over short distances.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and remain alert for changing conditions, particularly during the early morning hours and in traditional snow belt corridors.
While snowfall amounts are not expected to be extreme, the prolonged nature of the event and gusty winds increase the risk of minor accidents and travel delays throughout Sunday morning.
