Munising, MI – A dangerous blizzard is set to impact Michigan’s Upper Peninsula beginning Wednesday afternoon, as the National Weather Service issues a Blizzard Warning from 1 p.m. Wednesday through 7 p.m. Thursday for Alger County, including Munising and Grand Marais.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, the storm will bring 10 to 17 inches of snow and winds gusting up to 50 mph, strongest along the Lake Superior shoreline. The combination of heavy snow and high winds is expected to create whiteout conditions, making travel very difficult to impossible across the region.
The most hazardous conditions are expected from Wednesday evening through early Thursday, when the storm peaks. Blowing and drifting snow could significantly reduce visibility and block roads, while the intense winds may bring down tree branches, leading to localized power outages.
Forecasters say the storm’s duration — more than 24 hours of snow and wind — will make recovery and cleanup challenging. Conditions may improve slightly by late Thursday evening as winds begin to taper off.
Residents are strongly urged to avoid travel during the height of the storm. If driving becomes necessary, officials recommend carrying a winter survival kit and staying with your vehicle if stranded. Motorists can check 511mi.gov for real-time updates on road closures and conditions.
With the Upper Peninsula bracing for multiple blizzard warnings this week, meteorologists caution that Alger County could face some of the strongest lake-enhanced snowfall and winds of the season so far.
Are you seeing whiteout conditions in your area yet? How are you preparing for the storm? Share your updates below.
