Marquette, Michigan – Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across much of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and nearby northern counties from Thursday evening through Friday, with snow, sleet, and ice expected to create hazardous travel conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
The advisories cover western, central, and eastern Upper Michigan, including Keweenaw, Houghton, Baraga, Marquette, Gogebic, Iron, Dickinson, Alger, Delta, Schoolcraft, Luce, Chippewa, and Mackinac counties, as well as Mackinac Island and Bois Blanc Island.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, areas across the western and central Upper Peninsula can expect 1 to 2 inches of snow and sleet, with locally up to 4 inches possible in northern Houghton County. Farther east, including Luce County, snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are forecast, with isolated higher totals possible.
Ice accumulation is also a concern, particularly in southern and eastern areas. Forecasters say light ice accumulations up to one tenth of an inch could develop, creating slick roads, sidewalks, and untreated surfaces. In Keweenaw County, gusty winds up to 35 mph may cause blowing snow and reduced visibility.
The National Weather Service in Gaylord reports that Chippewa and Mackinac counties could see 3 to 6 inches of snow, with localized totals reaching 7 inches, while Western Mackinac County may experience a mix of snow, sleet, and light icing.
Hazardous conditions could impact post-holiday travel, including the Friday morning and evening commutes. Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and use caution on bridges and secondary roads.
A Winter Weather Advisory means periods of snow, sleet, or ice will cause travel difficulties but are not expected to reach warning-level severity. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and road conditions as the system moves through the region.
