Marquette, MI – A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for nearly all of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where a powerful system is expected to bring 12 to 25 inches of snow, 50 mph wind gusts, and near-blizzard conditions through Wednesday night, threatening Thanksgiving travel plans across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, the warning includes Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton, Baraga, Iron, and Marquette counties, with the heaviest snowfall forecast along the Keweenaw Peninsula. Snow begins late Tuesday evening, intensifying overnight as lake-effect bands form off Lake Superior.
Forecasters warn that visibility could drop below one-quarter mile, with widespread blowing and drifting snow expected through Wednesday evening. Travel could become very difficult to impossible, particularly along U.S. 41, M-28, and M-38. The Wednesday morning and evening commutes are likely to be severely impacted, with isolated power outages possible as winds strengthen.
Snowfall rates may exceed two inches per hour at times, and temperatures are expected to fall quickly behind the front, causing slick, ice-covered roads.
Officials urge residents and holiday travelers to avoid unnecessary travel, check 511MI.org for real-time road updates, and prepare for potential power outages. Those venturing out should keep emergency supplies—including blankets, food, and water—in their vehicles.
The heaviest snow is expected to taper late Wednesday night, though gusty winds and lake-effect flurries will continue into Thanksgiving morning.
