Severe lake effect snow blankets Michigan with up to 24 inches in the north. Bitter cold and hazardous travel conditions persist through the weekend.
Lake Effect Snow Paralyzes Michigan with Heavy Accumulations and Dangerous Wind Chills
DETROIT — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:25 AM EST on Saturday, November 30, 2024.
Lake Effect Snow Targets Southeast Michigan
Southeast Michigan will remain gripped by bitter cold and periodic snow showers through the weekend, as a thermal trough anchors over the Great Lakes. The National Weather Service predicts localized snow accumulations of up to an inch along the I-94 to I-69 corridor. Temperatures will hover in the upper 20s to low 30s, but brisk west winds will push wind chills into the teens. The snowfall will intensify in pockets, making travel hazardous at times.
Key Alert Areas:
- From I-94 to I-69, sporadic snow bands could create slick roads and visibility challenges.
- Small Craft Advisories are in place for Lake St. Clair and western Lake Erie.
Northern Lower Michigan: Record Snowfall Looms
The Gaylord and Sault Ste. Marie regions are under a Winter Storm Warning as heavy lake effect snow hammers the area. Accumulations of 12 to 24 inches, with localized pockets exceeding 30 inches, are expected by Saturday evening. The setup is comparable to the infamous 2001 Petoskey snowstorm, which saw totals approaching 100 inches in some areas. The perfect storm of Arctic air, warm lake temperatures, and converging snow bands has created an extraordinary event.
Travel Impact: Near whiteout conditions, especially in the Charlevoix, Otsego, and Antrim counties, will make roads treacherous. Travelers are advised to delay non-essential trips.
Upper Peninsula Endures Prolonged Snowfall
The Upper Peninsula (U.P.) continues to face relentless lake effect snow. Total accumulations could reach up to 3 feet in some locations by Monday morning, with the heaviest bands targeting Alger and Schoolcraft counties. Visibility will be further reduced by blowing snow, as winds gust up to 30 mph near Lake Superior.
Travel Warnings:
- Blizzard-like conditions expected in the snowbelts, particularly around Munising and Marquette.
- Gusty winds will enhance the risk of blowing snow and icy roads.
Hazardous Weather Changes Fast – Stay Updated
Weather conditions can shift rapidly. Stay informed through updates from the National Weather Service. For additional regional weather and news, follow ThumbWind Publications.
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