Gaylord, MI – Holiday travelers across northern Michigan should prepare for treacherous conditions tonight into Friday as lake effect snow intensifies, dropping up to 15 inches in some areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, a persistent and organized snow band will park over portions of Antrim, Kalkaska, and Crawford counties through Friday afternoon. While most of the region’s typical snow belts can expect 4 to 8 inches, localized totals may exceed 12 to 15 inches—especially along key corridors like US-131 and M-32.
The heaviest snowfall is expected between 11 p.m. tonight and 3 a.m. Friday, with blowing snow reducing visibility and drifting likely across rural highways. Travel conditions will deteriorate rapidly, particularly north of Cadillac through Gaylord and into Petoskey. Hazardous conditions may linger into early Friday morning.
Drivers are urged to delay non-essential travel, especially during overnight hours. If travel is necessary, pack emergency supplies and allow extra travel time. Plow crews will be active but may struggle to keep up during peak snowfall rates.
Snow showers will taper off by late Friday, but additional advisories are possible if bands reintensify.
