Cold blasts and lake effect snow will continue across Michigan today. Hazardous travel expected in snowbelt areas with wind chills dipping below zero.
Snow and Winds Hit Michigan’s Snowbelts Hard
DETROIT — Issued by the National Weather Service at 5:39 AM EST on December 5, 2024.
Southeast Michigan: Gusty Winds and Frigid Wind Chills
Southeast Michigan faces a bitterly cold day with wind chills in the single digits, rising only to the teens by afternoon. Sustained winds of 15-20 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph along the Thumb shoreline, may bring localized power outages and drifting snow. Light snow showers are possible, though accumulation remains minimal. A brief respite from the bitter cold will arrive with a warming trend starting this weekend.
Southwest Michigan: Lake Effect Snow Continues
Heavy lake effect snow persists in Southwest Michigan, with bands targeting areas west of US-131, from Muskegon to Kalamazoo. Snowfall of 4-8 inches is expected today in these regions, coupled with strong winds gusting to 45 mph. Travel remains treacherous, especially near the lakeshore, where visibility reductions from blowing snow will complicate driving. Conditions will ease tonight, with snow showers diminishing as surface ridging builds in.
Northern Lower Michigan: Heavy Snow Targets Snowbelts
The snowbelt regions of Northern Lower Michigan will see the heaviest accumulations today, with 4-7 inches of new snow expected. Winds gusting up to 40 mph will lead to blowing and drifting snow, creating hazardous travel along US-131 and nearby areas. Temperatures will remain subfreezing, with wind chills near zero adding to the harsh conditions. Snow showers will taper off tonight as the winds weaken and the low-pressure system exits.
Upper Peninsula: Dangerous Conditions Persist in LES Zones
The Upper Peninsula remains under Winter Storm Warnings in many areas, with intense lake-effect snow continuing along the northerly belts. Wind gusts up to 45 mph, and heavy snowfall will make travel dangerous in areas like Marquette, Munising, and the Keweenaw Peninsula. Additional 2-4 inches snowfall is expected today, with wind chills dropping below zero. Conditions will improve overnight as winds calm, though cold temperatures will persist.
Hazardous Weather Changes Fast – Stay Updated
Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the National Weather Service. For more localized updates, visit ThumbWind Publications.
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