Marquette, MI – Drivers across Upper Michigan are urged to use extra caution Friday morning as Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect across much of the region, bringing light to moderate snowfall, blowing snow, and gusty winds that could make travel hazardous.
According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, additional snowfall amounts range from up to 1 inch in southern counties to as much as 4 inches in parts of the central and eastern Upper Peninsula. Wind gusts between 35 and 45 mph are contributing to areas of blowing snow and reduced visibility, especially in open and lakeshore areas.
Counties affected include Iron, Dickinson, Delta, Menominee, Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton, Baraga, Marquette, Alger, Luce, and Schoolcraft. Communities such as Iron Mountain, Iron River, Escanaba, Menominee, Ironwood, Houghton, Marquette, Munising, and Newberry are seeing slick and snow-covered roads.
The advisories expire at different times throughout the morning and early afternoon, ranging from 6 a.m. CST in southern counties to 1 p.m. EST in eastern portions of the UP. Officials warn that bridges and overpasses are especially prone to icing, increasing the risk of accidents during the Friday morning commute.
In the western and central Upper Peninsula, gusty winds could also bring down tree branches, while widespread blowing snow may cause sudden drops in visibility over short distances.
Motorists are advised to slow down, increase following distance, and be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions. Pedestrians are also urged to watch for icy sidewalks and driveways.
Travelers can check the latest Michigan road conditions by calling 511 or visiting mi.gov/drive before heading out.
