Winter is sticking around in Northern Michigan, as snow showers and lingering flurries are expected to impact several counties over the next 24 hours. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Gaylord is warning that accumulating snow could create slippery road conditions, especially in areas near the Lake Michigan shoreline.
How Much Snow Will Fall?
Forecasters say the highest snowfall amounts will be concentrated in western and northern counties, with totals varying by location:
- Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee Counties can expect between 1 to 3 inches of snow, with localized higher amounts possible near the shoreline.
- Antrim and Kalkaska Counties may see between 2 to 4 inches, particularly west of I-75.
- Areas further inland will likely receive lighter accumulations but should still prepare for icy patches on untreated roads.
Snow is expected to continue overnight into Thursday morning, before tapering off later in the day.
Road Conditions and Travel Warnings
With temperatures dropping into the single digits overnight, icy roads and slick driving conditions will be a concern. Officials are urging motorists to drive with caution, as untreated roads and bridges could become hazardous.
The NWS advises drivers to:
- Reduce speed and allow extra time for commutes.
- Increase the following distance to avoid accidents.
- Watch for black ice, particularly on overpasses and less-travelled roads.
What’s Next for Northern Michigan?
After the snow clears on Thursday, temperatures will remain cold, with lows between 5°F and 17°F. However, a gradual warming trend is expected into the weekend, with highs climbing above freezing by Sunday.
While Friday will bring partly cloudy skies, forecasters say more snow showers could return over the weekend. Residents should stay alert for additional winter weather updates and prepare for changing conditions.
For the latest weather alerts and road conditions, stay tuned to local news updates and the National Weather Service in Gaylord.
