by Michigan — Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across large portions of northern Michigan as a fresh round of lake-effect snow and gusty winds is expected to create hazardous travel conditions from Friday afternoon through Saturday evening.
Lake-Effect Snow Brings Travel Concerns
Forecasters warn that rapidly shifting lake-effect snow bands could significantly reduce visibility and lead to slick, snow-covered roads, especially during peak travel times. The National Weather Service says conditions may change quickly over short distances, making travel unpredictable for motorists across the region.
Advisory Details for Northern Lower Michigan
According to the National Weather Service office in Gaylord, Emmet County is under a Winter Weather Advisory from 4 p.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Saturday. Snowfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected, along with wind gusts reaching 35 mph.
Weather officials caution that “gusty winds will lead to areas of blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility, especially during heavier snowfall,” which could significantly impact the Friday evening commute.
Surrounding Counties May See Heavier Snow
Additional advisories will be in effect from Friday evening through Saturday evening for nearby counties, including Antrim, Charlevoix, Crawford, Kalkaska, and Otsego. These areas are forecast to receive 3 to 6 inches of lake-effect snow, with locally higher totals possible, particularly along and west of Interstate 75.
Forecasters warn that snowfall rates could intensify as lake-effect bands strengthen. Winds gusting up to 35 mph may create near-whiteout conditions when heavier bands pass through.
The National Weather Service explained that “lake-effect snow will fall in narrow, shifting bands, causing rapidly changing conditions over short distances,” making it difficult for drivers to anticipate hazards ahead.
Eastern Upper Peninsula Also Affected
In the eastern Upper Peninsula, Central and Western Chippewa counties are under a Winter Weather Advisory from 7 p.m. Friday to 7 p.m. Saturday. Snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches are expected, with the heaviest snowfall likely north of M-28.
Winds gusting up to 30 mph in these areas may increase the risk of drifting snow and sudden drops in visibility on exposed roadways.
Travel Conditions Could Deteriorate Quickly
Weather officials emphasize that lake-effect snow can cause conditions to change rapidly, sometimes within just a few miles. Roads that appear clear may suddenly become snow-covered, especially on bridges, overpasses, rural highways, and open stretches prone to drifting.
Drivers could also encounter sudden whiteout conditions, particularly at night, when visibility may drop without warning as snow bands intensify.
Safety Guidance for Residents
Motorists traveling during advisory periods are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time. Officials also recommend carrying a winter emergency kit, keeping headlights on, and avoiding unnecessary travel during periods of heavier snowfall.
Pedestrians should exercise caution on sidewalks, steps, and parking lots, as blowing snow and fluctuating temperatures may conceal icy surfaces.
What to Expect by Saturday Evening
Snow is expected to taper off at varying times by Saturday evening as lake-effect bands weaken or shift. However, lingering slick spots may persist into the night, especially in areas that receive heavier snowfall.
Residents are advised to continue monitoring local forecasts and weather alerts, as advisory areas and snowfall totals could change quickly.
Share Your Update
Are you seeing heavy snow or reduced visibility in your area? How are you preparing for the winter weather? Share your local conditions and experiences in the comments below.
