MARQUETTE, Mich. – A powerful lake-effect snow event will blanket portions of Marquette and Alger Counties beginning Saturday evening, threatening to snarl weekend and Monday travel across Michigan’s central Upper Peninsula. The National Weather Service in Marquette has issued a Winter Storm Warning effective from 7 p.m. Saturday through 7 p.m. Monday, with localized totals approaching a foot near Munising and Grand Marais.
According to the National Weather Service Marquette office, two distinct waves of lake-effect snow will impact the region. The first arrives tonight and continues into early Sunday afternoon, followed by a stronger burst late Sunday night through midday Monday. Areas east of Marquette toward Munising could see the most persistent bands, reducing visibility and piling snow quickly on roads such as M-28, U.S. 41, and County Road 550.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly this evening, especially along the Lake Superior shoreline where wind gusts and whiteout conditions are likely. The Michigan Department of Transportation warns of slick and snow-covered roads during both rounds, with the Monday morning commute expected to be especially treacherous.
Residents are urged to delay non-essential travel, carry an emergency kit in their vehicle, and prepare for fluctuating conditions within just a few miles. Outdoor plans, including hunting and late fall cleanup, should be adjusted to account for rapidly changing visibility and accumulating snow.
