Michigan – Snow is expected to persist across much of the state through Wednesday, Jan. 14, and into Thursday, Jan. 15, with the heaviest accumulations targeting Michigan’s snowbelt regions, according to weather officials. Lake-effect snow combined with strong winds is creating hazardous travel conditions, particularly in northern areas.
Officials warn that visibility could drop to near zero in open areas, making travel dangerous or potentially life-threatening.
Lake-Effect Snow and Whiteouts Expected in the Upper Peninsula
The Marquette office of the National Weather Service warned that lake-effect snow and blowing snow will continue to cause whiteouts, especially in the north-central Upper Peninsula.
“Lake-effect snow and blowing snow will continue to lead to whiteouts and near-zero visibility in open areas,” the agency said in a Jan. 14 update. Officials urged drivers to delay travel if possible and to reduce speed and increase following distance if travel is unavoidable.
Snow Totals Could Reach Up to 15 Inches by Saturday
By Saturday morning, Jan. 17, snowbelt areas of Michigan are forecast to see 6 to 15 inches of snow, according to data from the NWS Probabilistic Precipitation Portal.
Benton Harbor, located in southwest Michigan, is projected to receive up to 15 inches. Much of the rest of the state is expected to see 1 to 9 inches, while the tip of Michigan’s “thumb” region could receive close to 9 inches.
Winter Storm Warnings Issued for Southwest Michigan
A winter storm warning is in effect for parts of southwest Michigan, particularly Cass and Berrien counties, where heavy lake-effect snow of 6 to 12 inches or more is expected. Wind gusts may reach 45 mph, increasing the risk of whiteout conditions.
“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous,” the National Weather Service said. “Visibilities may drop below one-quarter mile due to falling and blowing snow.”
Winter Storm Watch Covers Eastern Counties
In addition to active warnings, Huron and Sanilac counties are under a winter storm watch. Forecasters expect up to 6 inches of snow in these areas, along with wind gusts approaching 35 mph.
Winter Weather Advisories Remain in Effect
Winter weather advisories continue across the Upper Peninsula and parts of the Lower Peninsula, especially along the Great Lakes shorelines. Counties impacted include Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Manistee, Wexford, Alpena, Presque Isle, Mason, Muskegon, Oceana, Alger, Baraga, Luce, Marquette, and northern Schoolcraft, among others.
Drivers in these regions should expect slippery roads, reduced visibility, and periods of blowing snow through Thursday.
Great Lakes Face Gale Warnings and Freezing Spray
Hazardous conditions extend beyond land. Lakes Superior and Michigan are under gale warnings, with wind gusts up to 50 mph producing high waves. A small craft advisory remains in place for much of the Great Lakes.
Additionally, a heavy freezing spray warning has been issued for Lakes Superior and Huron, where rapid ice accumulation on vessels and structures could pose serious risks to marine traffic.
Officials continue to urge residents to monitor local forecasts closely as conditions evolve over the coming days.
