Escanaba, MI – Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula is preparing for a powerful pre-Thanksgiving winter storm as the National Weather Service issues a Winter Storm Warning for Delta, Luce, and Northern and Southern Schoolcraft Counties. The warning is in effect from 3 p.m. Wednesday through 7 p.m. Thursday, bringing the potential for heavy snow, strong wind gusts, and hazardous travel conditions across the region.
Storm Overview
Forecasters from the National Weather Service (NWS) Marquette report that the storm system will push into the region Wednesday afternoon, intensifying during the overnight hours and continuing through Thanksgiving morning. According to their early projections, snowfall totals could vary widely, with 3 to 11 inches expected across the warned areas, and the highest accumulations forecast east of M-35.
Snowfall & Wind Threat
Residents can expect challenging weather conditions as the storm unfolds. The NWS warns of wind gusts reaching 45 mph, strong enough to create blowing and drifting snow, significantly reducing visibility on roads—especially in open stretches and rural corridors.
Meteorologists emphasized that the evening commute on Wednesday and early morning travel on Thanksgiving could become treacherous, noting that heavy, wet snow combined with high winds may cause damage.
“The combination of strong winds and wet, heavy snowfall may lead to downed branches and isolated power outages across affected counties,” forecasters cautioned in their update.
With the possibility of whiteout conditions, officials urge travelers to plan ahead, delay nonessential trips, and prepare for extended travel times.
Timeline of Expected Impacts
The storm’s progression will follow a clear pattern, with conditions worsening throughout Wednesday night:
- 3 p.m. Wednesday: Snow begins moving into Delta and Schoolcraft Counties
- Evening hours: Intensification of snowfall; visibility begins to drop
- Overnight: Heaviest snow bands form east of M-35; wind gusts peak near 45 mph
- Thanksgiving morning: Hazardous travel conditions continue, especially in Luce County
- Thursday afternoon–evening: Snow gradually tapers west to east as winds weaken
The greatest impacts will be felt during the late-night and early-morning travel periods when wet, heavy snow combines with powerful winds.
What Officials Are Saying
Local authorities and weather experts are reinforcing the need for preparation. Utility crews are on standby due to the threat of falling branches and potential scattered power outages.
“Any holiday travelers should closely monitor updated forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility,” the NWS noted in its regional briefing.
Emergency personnel recommend limiting unnecessary travel and maintaining communication with relatives if traveling long distances for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Safety Guidance for Residents & Travelers
With winter storms, preparation remains key. Safety experts urge residents to take the following precautions:
Travel Safety
- Keep gas tanks at least half full to avoid freezing lines
- Slow down on snowy or icy roads
- Maintain extra distance between vehicles
- Check road condition maps before travel
Emergency Kit Essentials
Officials recommend having a fully stocked winter emergency kit in every vehicle. Key items include:
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Non-perishable food and bottled water
- Blankets and warm clothing
- Phone chargers
- First-aid supplies
- Ice scraper, shovel, and sand
These measures can be life-saving during unexpected delays or whiteout conditions.
Seasonal Preparedness in the Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula regularly experiences severe winter weather, but officials stress that pre-holiday storms often pose additional risks due to increased traffic. Early-season storms like this one can also surprise residents who are still transitioning into winter mode—many homes are not yet fully winterized, and some drivers may not have installed snow tires.
Awareness and preparedness can lower the risk of accidents, stranded motorists, and weather-related injuries. Meteorologists remind residents that even “moderate” snowfall totals can become dangerous when paired with high winds, freezing temperatures, and limited daylight during the holiday season.
Conclusion
As the Upper Peninsula prepares for this significant Thanksgiving storm, residents in Delta, Luce, and Schoolcraft Counties are encouraged to remain alert and prioritize safety. With up to 11 inches of snow and 45 mph winds expected, holiday travel plans may need adjustment to avoid hazardous conditions.
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