Remember those mild, spring-like days earlier this week when temperatures soared into the 50s? Hope you soaked up the sunshine because winter is making a fierce comeback in Michigan.
A strong clipper system is set to deliver a fresh round of heavy snow to parts of Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, with some areas bracing for up to 12 inches of accumulation. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued Winter Storm Watches for several counties, warning of treacherous travel conditions and gusty winds.
Cold Returns with a Vengeance
Much of West Michigan and Southeast Michigan will see a mix of rain and snow, but temperatures will plunge sharply, making it feel much colder than earlier this week. Friday’s gusty winds will add to the chill, making for a wintry end to the workweek.
However, for those in Northern Michigan and the U.P., it’s a full-blown return to winter. If you’re a skier or snowmobiler, this might be the snowfall you’ve been waiting for.
Who’s in the Bullseye?
The heaviest snow will hit areas along the Lake Superior shoreline, including Sault Ste. Marie, which could see as much as 12 inches. Many locations in Northern Michigan and the U.P. are in line for 6 to 10 inches of snow by Saturday morning.
According to the NWS in Gaylord:
“A clipper system will move across the Great Lakes region this Friday, delivering two different outcomes to Northern Michigan. For the northern Lower Peninsula: Expect a quick shot of snow early in the morning, followed by mixed rain and snow showers in the afternoon, with highs reaching into the 40s south of M-72. In the eastern Upper Peninsula, temperatures will stay below freezing, with snowfall accumulations as high as 6 to 8 inches, with some areas seeing 10+ inches. Be sure to keep an eye on the forecast for your commutes!”
The following areas are under a Winter Storm Watch until late Friday:
- Northern Lower Peninsula: Emmet, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, Beaver Island, and surrounding islands
- Eastern Upper Peninsula: Mackinac, Chippewa (including Drummond, Mackinac, and Bois Blanc islands)
- Keweenaw Peninsula & Lake Superior Shoreline: Alger, Luce, and parts of Schoolcraft County, including the cities of Munising, Newberry, Grand Marais, and Manistique
What to Expect
- Snow Accumulation: 4 to 7 inches in parts of Northern Lower Michigan; 6 to 9 inches across the eastern U.P. and Mackinac County
- Blowing Snow: Wind gusts up to 30 mph could lead to low visibility and drifting snow
- Bitter Cold: Highs in the 20s and 30s in affected regions
- Treacherous Travel: Roads could become snow-covered and slippery, with whiteout conditions possible at times
NWS meteorologists in Marquette caution:
“Heavy snow is possible, with total accumulations between 7 and 10 inches, particularly north and east of M-94. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.”
Stay Safe & Stay Informed
If you must travel, be prepared for sudden visibility changes and icy roads. Delaying travel is advised if possible. As always, keep an eye on weather updates, and make sure you have an emergency kit in your car if you’re heading out into the storm.
Michigan’s brief flirtation with spring is over—for now. It’s time to bundle up and brace for another dose of winter.
