Houghton, MI – One of the season’s strongest winter storms has brought parts of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to a standstill, with a Blizzard Warning now in effect through 7 a.m. Thursday for Keweenaw, Ontonagon, Northern Houghton, Baraga, and Gogebic Counties. Residents across the western U.P. are being urged to stay off the roads as the region battles dangerous whiteouts, heavy snow, and destructive winds.
Severe Blizzard Conditions Impacting Multiple Counties
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Marquette reports that total snow accumulation from this storm could reach between 12 and 29 inches, depending on elevation and location. The heaviest snowfall is expected across the Spine of the Keweenaw Peninsula, the Porcupine Mountains, and the area near Bergland Dam, where lake-enhanced bands have remained nearly stationary.
Meteorologists say the combination of heavy snow and winds gusting up to 55 mph is creating extremely hazardous road conditions. These wind speeds are typical of severe blizzards and are strong enough to cause tree damage, scattered power outages, and road blockages.
A source from the National Weather Service explained the severity of the storm within its latest advisory, noting that the conditions are producing “widespread whiteouts and impossible travel” across affected areas.
Hazardous Travel Expected to Continue Into Thanksgiving
The storm has already disrupted Wednesday morning and evening commutes across the western Upper Peninsula, and officials warn that the situation is unlikely to improve quickly. Forecasters say visibility may fall to near zero at times, especially in open areas and higher elevations where blowing snow becomes more intense.
According to NWS forecasters,
“Visibility will frequently drop to near zero during the heaviest bursts of snow, and roads may become completely impassable in rural corridors.”
Residents planning Thanksgiving travel are urged to reconsider or delay trips until conditions significantly improve. Blowing and drifting snow, especially on north–south roads, may leave vehicles trapped, and emergency responders could struggle to reach stranded drivers.
Officials Warn Against All Nonessential Travel
Local authorities across Houghton, Baraga, Gogebic, and Ontonagon Counties are warning residents to stay indoors and avoid all nonessential travel. Emergency managers emphasize that staying off the roads allows plow crews to work more efficiently and reduces the risk of collisions or stranded motorists.
Officials advise that anyone who must travel during the blizzard should carry a winter emergency kit, which typically includes blankets, water, nonperishable food, a phone charger, a flashlight, and extra warm clothing.
They also remind drivers that if they become stuck, the safest option is to remain inside the vehicle until help arrives.
One emergency management official stressed the importance of preparedness:
“If you don’t absolutely need to be on the road, stay home. These conditions can become life-threatening very quickly.”
Power Outage Risks and Community Impacts
With wind gusts nearing 55 mph, scattered power outages remain a significant concern. Heavy, wet snow accumulating on power lines can increase the chance of failures. Fallen trees or branches may also block residential roads, delaying restoration efforts and prolonging outages in rural communities.
Public works departments across the region are preparing for a challenging holiday week as they work to maintain major roads, clear fallen debris, and coordinate with utility companies. Residents are encouraged to keep their phones charged and have backup heating options available should power disruptions occur.
Storm Expected to Ease Thursday Morning
The worst of the blizzard is expected to subside by early Thursday as snow intensity gradually decreases and winds weaken. However, crews warn that cleanup efforts may take time, and many rural roads may remain difficult to navigate even after the warning expires.
Even as conditions begin to improve, forecasters caution that lingering lake-effect snow showers could continue to impact parts of the Keweenaw Peninsula through the weekend.
Conclusion
This storm marks one of the most disruptive weather events of the season for Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula, with heavy snow, whiteouts, and power outages continuing to threaten travel and daily routines. Residents are urged to stay informed, remain indoors whenever possible, and use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.
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