Marquette, Michigan – Dangerous winter storm conditions are expected across much of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula beginning Sunday night, as the National Weather Service issues multiple Winter Storm Warnings through Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for Keweenaw, northern Houghton, Marquette, Alger, Ontonagon, and Gogebic counties, with start times ranging from midnight to 7 p.m. Sunday and expiration times extending through Monday morning or early evening, depending on location.
Forecasters expect moderate to heavy snowfall totaling 2 to 6 inches, combined with wind gusts of 35 to 45 mph, resulting in widespread blowing snow. These conditions may lead to very difficult to near-impossible travel, especially along exposed roadways and near the Lake Superior shoreline.
The National Weather Service warns that visibility may be sharply reduced, with blowing snow producing sudden whiteouts at times. Travel impacts are expected to be most severe during the Monday morning commute, with additional disruptions possible later in the day in eastern counties.
Areas north and east of U.S. 41, including Marquette, Hancock, Houghton, Munising, Ironwood, and Copper Harbor, are especially vulnerable to blowing and drifting snow. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches, leading to isolated power outages.
In addition to snow and wind, dangerously cold wind chills ranging from -15°F to -25°F are expected by Monday morning, increasing the risk of frostbite for anyone outdoors for extended periods.
Officials strongly advise limiting travel during the warning period. Motorists who must travel are urged to carry emergency supplies, including food, water, warm clothing, and a flashlight, and to prepare for rapidly changing road and visibility conditions.
