Iron River, MI – A powerful lake-enhanced winter storm continues to batter the western and central Upper Peninsula this Thanksgiving morning, producing whiteouts, deep snowfall, and widespread blowing snow that is making travel dangerous and, at times, nearly impossible. Gusty winds are keeping visibility low even where accumulations have slowed.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 6 a.m. CST / 7 a.m. EST Weather Today – Thanksgiving Day 2025 for Iron and Southern Houghton Counties. Additional snow accumulations range from 2 inches southeast of Crystal Falls to 15 inches closer to Lake Superior. According to forecasters, winds up to 45 mph will continue blowing and drifting snow along US-2, M-28, and rural corridors east of Iron River. According to emergency managers, tree branches weakened by wind and ice may fall, with scattered outages possible.
A separate Winter Storm Warning stays in effect until 7 p.m. for Luce, Delta, and both Northern and Southern Schoolcraft Counties. Snow totals in these eastern areas range from 3 to 11 inches, with the heaviest accumulations near Manistique, Seney, and Newberry. Blowing snow will remain a major hazard for Thanksgiving morning travel.
Forecasters note that the heaviest bands may continue to pivot inland through midday, creating sudden whiteouts. Drivers should avoid travel when possible. If travel is necessary, residents are urged to carry winter emergency supplies—flashlights, food, and water—and remain with their vehicle if stranded.
Conditions gradually improve later this afternoon as winds weaken and snowfall tapers.
