Michigan Braces for Arctic Blast and Snow: Warnings Across the State

Michigan is facing intensifying lake effect snow due to an approaching Arctic cold front, with forecasts predicting 6-12 inches of snow and hazardous travel conditions. Gusty winds, frigid temperatures, and marine hazards are also expected, significantly impacting various regions across the state.

Lake effect snow blankets Michigan as Arctic air moves in, triggering advisories and warnings. High winds and frigid temps expected midweek.

Lake Effect Snow Intensifies, Arctic Cold Front Approaches

[DETROIT] — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:10 AM on December 2, 2024.

Arctic Chill Brings Snow and Gusty Winds to Michigan

Persistent Lake Effect Snow Hitting Michigan Regions

UP Forecast - National Weather Service — UP Forecast – National Weather Service

Southeast Michigan, Northern Lower Michigan, and the Upper Peninsula are bracing for significant lake effect snow today as cold air sweeping across the Great Lakes triggers intense bands of snowfall. Snow accumulation could reach 6-10 inches in some snowbelt areas, with localized heavier bursts near Lake Michigan and Lake Superior shores. Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for the Upper Peninsula and parts of Northern Lower Michigan.

Wind shifts from north-northwest to west-northwest today will push snow showers inland, with heavier snow expected to concentrate along Michigan’s northwest coastline.

Clipper System Poised to Strike Midweek

A potent clipper system will arrive late Wednesday, bringing widespread snowfall across Michigan. This will transition to lake-enhanced snow as arctic air plunges temperatures by Thursday. Gusty winds of up to 40-50 mph could create dangerous wind chills below zero in some areas. Northern Lower Michigan’s Straits region and the Eastern Upper Peninsula are at high risk for hazardous conditions.

Marine and Travel Hazards Expected

The clipper system will also increase marine risks. Wave heights on Lake Superior could reach up to 20 feet by Thursday morning, paired with gale-force winds gusting over 45 knots. Blowing snow will reduce visibility on roadways, particularly near exposed shorelines and snowbelt regions.

Today’s Forecast: Flurries to Frigid Winds

Expect cloudy skies with intermittent flurries in Southeast Michigan, with high temperatures in the low 30s. In Northern Lower Michigan, snow showers persist through tonight with accumulations of 6-10 inches west of US-131. The Upper Peninsula will see moderate snow showers, tapering off slightly by late afternoon but remaining cold and breezy.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast – Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the NWS. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, your local news channels, and NOAA All Hazards radio. Please follow ThumbWind Publications for more local weather and news updates. Your helpful comments are welcome.