Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan – Travel across eastern Upper Michigan could deteriorate quickly after midnight Tuesday as heavy snow spreads north, threatening to drop up to 8 inches by Wednesday evening and reduce visibility on major routes.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late Tuesday night through Wednesday evening for Chippewa and Mackinac counties, including Mackinac Island and Bois Blanc Island. Forecasters say 4 to 8 inches of snow may fall, with brief periods of freezing rain adding up to one tenth of an inch of ice. Wind gusts could reach 35 mph, leading to blowing snow and drifting across open stretches.
I-75 from St. Ignace to the Sault, along with US-2 near Brevort and M-123, may become snow-covered before the Wednesday morning commute. Ferry operations to Mackinac Island could face delays if ice and wind intensify.
Road crews will monitor conditions, but rapid snowfall rates may outpace treatment efforts at times. Drivers should consider adjusting travel plans, reduce speeds and carry winter gear in case of delays. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued as snowfall totals become more certain.
